The United States and Turkey have had a complicated relationship when it comes to military cooperation, especially regarding fighter jets. At the center of this issue are two aircraft programs: the F-16 and the F-35.
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The U.S. had earlier removed Turkey from the F-35 program due to its purchase of a Russian missile defense system, the S-400. However, recent reports suggest that the U.S. might reconsider allowing Turkey back into the program, but only under strict conditions.
A recent phone conversation between the leaders of both countries led to speculation that efforts are underway to resolve the stalled F-16 deal and possibly even find a way for Turkey to regain access to the F-35 program. This development comes amid Turkey’s ongoing negotiations to modernize its air force, as well as its growing interest in purchasing Eurofighter Typhoon jets from Europe.
The F-16 deal has been under discussion for a long time. The U.S. government had approved the sale of 40 new F-16 fighter jets in the Block 70 configuration along with the modernization of 79 existing aircraft.
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This agreement, which was expected to be worth billions of dollars, was a significant step in strengthening Turkey’s air force. However, Turkey later decided to cut costs by focusing on upgrading its current fleet within the country, leading to delays in finalizing the deal.
Now, with Turkey considering alternatives like the Eurofighter Typhoon, there are concerns that the F-16 agreement may face further challenges. This is where the possibility of a new F-35 offer comes into the picture.
Turkey’s Expulsion from the F-35 Program
The country was originally part of the U.S.-led F-35 fighter jet program, planning to buy at least 100 of these advanced stealth jets. Its industries were also involved in manufacturing some of their components.
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However, everything changed in 2019 with the decision to acquire the S-400 missile defense system from Russia.
The U.S. strongly opposed this move, citing security risks. The S-400 system is designed to detect and track aircraft, including stealth fighters like the F-35. American officials feared that operating both systems could allow Russia to gather intelligence on how to detect the F-35, reducing its effectiveness in future conflicts.
As a result, participation in the F-35 program was revoked, and sanctions were imposed under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). These restrictions made it difficult to acquire American defense technology. Since then, efforts have been made to upgrade the air force through alternative options, such as considering the Eurofighter Typhoon.
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Despite these challenges, interest in rejoining the F-35 program remains. The latest reports suggest that a return might be possible, but only if a major concession is made—getting rid of the Russian S-400 system.
Possible Conditions for Turkey’s Return to the F-35 Program
The U.S. has made it clear that returning to the F-35 program depends on the fate of the S-400 system. Officials have suggested that one possible solution is to make the S-400 inoperable. This could mean storing the system in a facility where it cannot be used or even handing it over to a base controlled by the U.S.
While no official agreement has been reached, discussions are reportedly ongoing. The situation remains complex, as significant investments have been made in the S-400 system, which is considered an important part of national defense strategy.
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At the same time, the pursuit of new fighter jets—whether from the U.S. or European countries—shows an active effort to strengthen air capabilities. If negotiations over the F-16 and F-35 programs continue, the outcome will have a major impact on the future of military cooperation between both nations.
