26.02.2025 21:30
In reports from the Greek press, it was noted that the sale of Eurofighter fighter jets and Meteor missiles to Turkey would be very difficult to prevent due to Athens' efforts. It was assessed that Turkey would not only not need Western weapons with the Eurofighter and Meteor, but could also become a competitor to the European defense industry in the global market.
According to a report by the Greek newspaper Kathimerini, the defense cooperation between Greece and the UK and the issue of the Eastern Mediterranean were discussed during Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias's visit to England earlier this week. According to the report, Dendias raised the possibility of selling Meteor-type missiles to Turkey during his meeting with his British counterpart John Healey.
FEAR OF EUROFIGHTER AND METEOR
The report states that the UK plays a central role in communications with Turkey regarding the sale of Eurofighters, and that reaching an agreement in this regard would also mean paving the way for the sale of Meteor missiles. The report noted, "It is well known in Athens that it is very difficult for the UK government to influence such a commercial transaction under the current circumstances. Especially since the UK and Turkey are two NATO members that are not EU members and are demanding more cooperation in the defense industry (it is difficult)."
"GREECE IS PRESSURING EUROPE"
In a report published on the Newsit news portal titled "Greece is pressuring Europeans not to sell Meteor missiles to Turkey," it was stated that Turkey's intention to purchase Eurofighter jets and Meteor missiles has raised concerns in Greece. The report mentioned that the possibility of Turkey being included in the 5th generation F-35 program during Donald Trump's presidency has also worried Greece, stating: "In this context, Athens is trying to block Ankara's plans at all levels with arguments, but all the messages received leave little room for optimism. The decision taken at the highest level is to exert significant pressure on all relevant parties to prevent Turkey from acquiring the Eurofighter and Meteor package." The report claimed that Athens has warned its European allies that Turkey conducts "reverse engineering" on every weapon system it acquires, suggesting that a similar effort could be made for Meteor missiles.
"CAN BE A COMPETITOR TO EUROPE"
It was assessed that Turkey may not need Western weapons in this way and could also become a competitor to the European defense industry in the global market. On the other hand, the report stated, "Since it is expected to exceed 5 billion euros and is an agreement that will strengthen the Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet production program, Ankara's efforts to block the plans are seen as extremely difficult."