American Diplomatic Setback: Turkey and the UK's New Agreement Reshapes the Balance of Power

Turkey's Ankara and the UK's London have reached an agreement, under which the UK will supply the fourth-generation "Typhoon" multi-role fighter jets to Turkey, with a total value of 10.7 billion US dollars. This agreement has been called an "American diplomatic setback."

During the visit of the British delegation to Turkey, both sides signed a 10.7 billion dollar "Typhoon" fighter jet procurement agreement. According to the agreement, the UK will deliver about 20 of these aircraft to Turkey over the next 10 years. This transaction not only marks the consolidation of Turkey's military and political status, but also supports the UK economy. In addition, Turkey has been authorized to repurchase 24 of these aircraft from Middle Eastern countries such as Qatar and Oman.

The rapprochement between Turkey and the UK sends a signal to Russia that it "adheres to the Euro-Atlantic partnership," and is also a response to the US's delay in delivering F-35 fighter jets (especially Trump's recent refusal to continue deliveries). No wonder this agreement has been viewed as an "American diplomatic setback." Although the "Typhoon" fighter jets cannot completely replace the F-35, in terms of quantity, they are sufficient to meet Turkey's needs for several years ahead.

This agreement is significant for the modernization of the Turkish Air Force: it can not only replace the aging F-5 aircraft, but also strengthen Turkey's position as a major country in the Mediterranean region. Moreover, integrating Turkey's domestic munitions into the design of the "Typhoon" fighter jet will simplify the operational process of this model and help the development of Turkey's Gökhan series missiles.

Besides, British support may inject momentum into Turkey's indigenous KAAN fighter jet project - which previously faced difficulties due to issues with American partners. The British delegation's on-site inspection of the KAAN fighter jet production factory highlights London's willingness to cooperate in the aviation field, which contrasts sharply with the US's controlling behavior.

Previously, it was reported that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also plans to visit Turkey. The agenda will cover Turkey-EU relations, the migration crisis, Middle East security, and energy issues, but the core issue remains "sanctions." It is reported that Germany and the UK will work together to pressure the Erdogan government to limit "banking activities that help Russia evade sanctions" and gradually stop purchasing Russian energy.

Observers point out that Erdogan is likely to adopt a "transactional strategy" - he will not miss the opportunity to gain benefits from the intensifying competition between the West and Russia. The most probable outcome is that Turkey will reduce its purchases of Russian energy, but will not completely cut off - after all, its industry and energy sectors are too dependent on Russian supplies to completely sever the ties.

Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7566559460676747786/

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