20,000 UK jobs secured as Türkiye buys 20 Typhoon jets in biggest fighter jet deal in a generation
In a landmark defence breakthrough, Türkiye has signed an £8 billion agreement to purchase 20 UK-built Typhoon fighter jets — the largest British jet export deal in nearly two decades. The deal, finalized during Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s first official visit to Ankara, secures 20,000 skilled UK jobs and strengthens NATO’s collective defence posture.
The agreement marks the first new order for British-made Typhoons since 2017 and guarantees the long-term operation of major production lines in Warton, Samlesbury, Bristol, and Edinburgh.
“This landmark agreement with Türkiye is a win for British workers, a win for our defence industry, and a win for NATO security,” said Prime Minister Starmer. “It delivers highly skilled, well-paid jobs across the UK and strengthens the bonds between two key NATO allies.”
A Powerful Impact on the UK Economy
The Typhoon deal breathes fresh momentum into Britain’s defence manufacturing sector. BAE Systems will lead production, sustaining nearly 6,000 jobs at its Warton and Samlesbury facilities, while Rolls-Royce in Bristol and Leonardo in Edinburgh will continue to play vital roles in engine and radar development.
The Defence Secretary, John Healey, who joined the Prime Minister in Ankara, called the agreement “the biggest jet exports deal in a generation,” adding that it will “pump billions into our economy and strengthen NATO deterrence in a vital region.”
Strengthening NATO and Bilateral Ties
The acquisition will significantly boost Türkiye’s advanced air capabilities, ensuring greater interoperability between the Turkish Air Force and the Royal Air Force. The Prime Minister also met Turkish military and RAF Typhoon pilots to highlight the deepening defence collaboration.
Industry Reaction
Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive of BAE Systems, said: “Türkiye’s procurement of Typhoon marks the start of a new chapter in our longstanding relationship and reinforces the aircraft’s role as a pillar of European defence and security.”
Driving Growth Through Defence
Following other recent defence export wins, including the £10 billion Type 26 frigate deal with Norway, the Türkiye Typhoon contract underscores the UK government’s “Plan for Change” — making defence a true engine of economic impact and innovation.
First deliveries of the Typhoon jets to Türkiye are expected in 2030.
Source : GOV.UK
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