Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has expressed confidence that Türkiye can rejoin the U.S. F-35 fighter jet program, a significant development following what he perceives as a positive stance from U.S. President Donald Trump. Erdoğan’s comments came after attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where he emphasized that Ankara anticipates tangible actions from Washington to facilitate Türkiye’s return to the program.
Türkiye’s access to the F-35 program was revoked in 2019 after the country purchased Russia’s S-400 air defense system, which raised security concerns within the United States. The U.S. government argued that the Russian system could potentially compromise the security of F-35 technology and its integration with NATO systems. Consequently, Washington imposed sanctions on Türkiye’s defense procurement agency under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).
The removal from the F-35 program remains a point of contention in Türkiye-U.S. defense relations. Despite the sanctions and removal, Ankara has consistently sought a resolution and expressed a desire to reintegrate into the program. Discussions between the two countries are ongoing, according to Erdoğan.
Erdoğan’s statement underscores the importance of the F-35 program to Türkiye’s defense strategy and its broader diplomatic relationship with the United States. The situation remains complex, with Türkiye navigating its relationship with both the U.S. and Russia. The outcome of these discussions could have significant implications for NATO’s defense strategy and regional security dynamics.
As the two nations continue their dialogue, the international community is closely watching for any developments that could signal a shift in the geopolitical landscape or a resolution to the ongoing dispute. The outcome will likely influence not only bilateral relations but also the broader alliance structures within NATO. Erdoğan’s optimism suggests a potential thaw in relations, but concrete steps from Washington will be crucial for any progress.