US and Turkey explore path toward renewed F-35 cooperation

15:50

By: Dakir Madiha

US and Turkey explore path toward renewed F-35 cooperation

Washington and Ankara are holding exploratory talks about the possibility of Turkey rejoining the F-35 fighter jet program, a move that would mark a significant thaw in relations after years of tension over Turkey’s acquisition of Russian defense systems.

According to US officials, recent diplomatic exchanges have been "constructive," with growing optimism about rebuilding defense cooperation between the two NATO allies. American ambassador Tom Barrack said on X that the strong rapport between US President Donald Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had created "a new atmosphere of cooperation," allowing for progress not seen in nearly a decade.

Still, Washington insists that any reentry into the F-35 program depends on Ankara fully distancing itself from the Russian-made S-400 missile system. Under US law, Turkey must neither possess nor operate the system due to security concerns that it could compromise the stealth technology and data of the F-35.

Longstanding dispute

The United States removed Turkey from the F-35 program in 2019 after it took delivery of the S-400 air defense system from Russia. Sanctions were imposed the following year under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act. At the time, the White House argued that the Russian system could collect intelligence on the F-35’s classified capabilities.

Turkey, which had invested about 1.4 billion dollars in the project and planned to acquire 100 aircraft, described the suspension as unfair. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan recently stated that he expects the issue to be resolved soon and that both countries are working toward lifting the restrictions.

Unclear prospects

Despite positive diplomatic signals, the path forward remains uncertain. Turkey has repeatedly rejected demands to abandon the S-400 system, while Washington maintains its legal and security objections. Barrack suggested earlier that the dispute could be resolved within six months, but progress appears gradual.

In the meantime, Ankara has sought alternatives to modernize its air force. It signed an eight-billion-pound deal in October for 20 Eurofighter Typhoon jets from Britain and continues developing its indigenous fifth-generation fighter, the KAAN, projected to enter service in 2028.

The renewed talks follow a September meeting at the White House, where Trump hinted at the possibility of Turkey purchasing F-35s in the future if core defense concerns are addressed.