Greece Seeks to Block Turkey’s Acquisition of BVRAAM “METEOR” Missiles
Greece's primary concern regarding Turkey's acquisition of the Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets is the inclusion of the long-range air-to-air METEOR missiles that will also be supplied to Ankara.
DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA – Turkey’s acquisition of 40 Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets has reportedly unsettled its neighbor and longstanding rival, Greece, which has voiced strong objections to the sale.
Greece’s main concern over Turkey’s purchase of the Eurofighter Typhoon lies in the inclusion of the long-range air-to-air METEOR missile, which will also be supplied to Ankara.
Greece seeks to prevent Turkey from acquiring Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets along with METEOR missiles.
The METEOR, a beyond-visual-range (BVR) air-to-air missile, is widely regarded as the world’s most advanced in its class, surpassing the U.S.-developed AIM-120 AMRAAM.
This capability has left Greece deeply uneasy since Turkey announced the procurement of the 40 Eurofighter Typhoons.
Interestingly, the Hellenic Air Force also operates the METEOR missile through its fleet of 24 French-made Rafale fighter jets.
“METEOR BVRAAM”
The METEOR missile is developed by MBDA, a pan-European defense firm.
Given that France is one of the key nations behind the development of the METEOR missile through MBDA, it reportedly holds a “veto” power to block the sale of the missile to Turkey.
France has traditionally maintained close relations with Greece and has consistently supported Athens in its disputes with Ankara.
However, recent reports indicate that the United Kingdom, a staunch advocate for the sale of the Eurofighter Typhoon to Turkey, has successfully persuaded France to proceed with supplying the METEOR missile to Ankara.
The radar-guided METEOR missile is capable of reaching speeds over Mach 4 and can engage airborne targets at distances of up to 200 km.
As a beyond-visual-range (BVR) missile, the METEOR can be integrated with various fighter aircraft, including the Eurofighter Typhoon, Gripen, Rafale, F-35, and the latest KF-21 “Boramae.”
Rafale launching “METEOR” BVR air-to-air missile.
Measuring 3.65 meters in length, the METEOR is designed to deliver superior long-range strike capabilities, precision targeting, and high survivability in contested environments.
At the core of the METEOR’s exceptional performance is its advanced propulsion system. Unlike conventional rocket-powered missiles, the METEOR is equipped with a solid-fuel ramjet engine.
This cutting-edge propulsion technology enables the missile to sustain high speeds—exceeding Mach 4—throughout its flight, providing a significant advantage over traditional missiles that decelerate as they approach their targets.
The integration of the METEOR missile into Turkey’s Air Force via the Eurofighter Typhoon acquisition is expected to shift the balance of air power in the Mediterranean region.
It will grant the Turkish Air Force a significant edge in long-range air combat, allowing it to engage enemy aircraft before entering their missile engagement zones.
“METEOR” BVRAAM
Recently, Turkey announced that it had received the green light from the four-nation Eurofighter consortium—comprising the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Spain—to purchase 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets.
Initially, Germany opposed the sale, but Berlin ultimately agreed under pressure from several countries, particularly the United Kingdom.
Turkey is set to acquire the latest variant of the Eurofighter Typhoon, known as the “Tranche 4.” Equipped with the AESA “CAPTOR E” radar, the Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 4 is considered Europe’s most advanced fighter jet variant, capable of remaining in service until 2060.
METEOR Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) – Technical Specifications
Manufacturer: MBDA (Pan-European defense company)
Role: Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM)
Guidance System: Active radar homing with inertial mid-course guidance and data link updates