Turkey is quietly negotiating with several European governments for advanced weapons, with air defense systems topping the list. Ankara currently possesses Russian S-400 batteries but wants Western alternatives, according to sources familiar with the talks.
The push reflects Turkey’s broader effort to rebuild defense ties with NATO allies. Years of tension over the S-400 purchase led to U.S. sanctions and an ejection from the F-35 program. Sourcing European air defense would signal a strategic shift.
Ankara has asked Italy to help persuade France on the SAMP/T system, developed jointly by both countries through EUROSAM. Rome has approved the sale, but Paris remains resistant. Negotiations started last spring and have since stalled.
Turkey wants access to the newer SAMP/T NG variant as well, which offers longer range plus industrial cooperation and technology transfer. The same system lost out to Israel’s Achilles Shield in Greece’s recent competition. Compared to Patriot batteries, SAMP/T units cost less.
Political timing adds pressure. France holds presidential elections with a first round on April 18, 2027, and a runoff on May 2. Ankara worries a new administration could harden Paris’s stance. France already blocks Turkish progress on several EU matters, including the SAFE regulation and customs union modernization.
Submarines form the second front. Turkey formally requested cooperation with Germany on the Type 212CD submarine built by TKMS, proposing partial construction at its Golcuk shipyards. Ankara already operates six older Type 214 boats. Berlin has not rejected the idea outright, but wants minimal industrial and technological work leaving Germany, meaning talks will drag on.
Relations with Italy and Spain progress more smoothly. Rome cooperates on drone programs, while Madrid discusses transferring SM-1 missiles from Spanish Navy stocks. Ankara hopes these smaller wins build momentum for the larger air defense deal.
The outcome hinges on whether Paris softens its position or whether Turkey pivots to alternative European systems that bypass France entirely.
