Two Turkish Air Force pilots have begun training on RAF Typhoon fighter jets at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, with the Royal Air Force’s 29 Squadron leading the conversion course. The move is part of the UK-Türkiye Eurofighter Typhoon programme, a deal worth more than £8 billion for 20 aircraft, and comes well before the first Turkish deliveries, currently expected in 2030.
The pilots are reported to be experienced combat aviators and the first Turkish aircrew to qualify on the Typhoon with the RAF. Their conversion training is due to last up to nine months, followed by three months of instructor training. After that, they are expected to remain with 29 Squadron as instructors until Türkiye receives its first aircraft.
The training effort sits alongside a wider support package covering pilots, technicians and maintenance personnel. Under the broader agreement, the UK is preparing Turkish crews for the introduction of the fighter into service, while BAE Systems is involved in support and training for the future fleet. Group Captain Batu of the Türkiye Programme Management Office welcomed the pilots as they began conversion training and highlighted the initial phase focused on Typhoon systems and UK military airspace procedures.