Turkish Air Force pilots have begun flight training for the Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet as part of Türkiye’s procurement program for the advanced multirole combat aircraft.

Türkiye’s Ministry of National Defence announced that Air Force pilots, who began their training process in August under the Eurofighter Typhoon procurement agreement signed with the United Kingdom, successfully completed terminology training and moved on to flight training.

The ministry said the training program represents a key phase in preparing Turkish personnel for the operation of the aircraft once they enter service.

Background on Türkiye’s Eurofighter Typhoon program

Türkiye’s acquisition of Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft is part of efforts to strengthen the capabilities of the Turkish Air Force and modernize its fighter fleet.

As part of agreements with the United Kingdom, Turkish pilots and technical personnel are receiving training and support services related to the aircraft. The program includes pilot training, maintenance training, simulators, support equipment and technical assistance.

The United Kingdom is providing training support for Turkish personnel, including instructor pilots and maintenance specialists, with the aim of helping Türkiye develop its own operational and training capabilities for the aircraft.

Türkiye previously signed an agreement to acquire Eurofighter Typhoon jets, with the aircraft expected to enhance the country’s air combat capabilities alongside its existing fighter fleet. The training process is being carried out before the aircraft become fully operational in the Turkish Air Force inventory.

The Eurofighter Typhoon is a twin-engine, multirole combat aircraft developed by a European consortium involving the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy and Spain. It is designed for air superiority missions as well as ground attack, reconnaissance and other advanced combat roles.(ILKHA)