President Donald Trump is expected to tell Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that he is ready to restore Turkey's access to the F-35 fighter-jet programme [1].
This potential reversal marks a significant shift in diplomatic strategy. Restoring access to the advanced stealth aircraft could mend strained relations between the two allies and serve as a strategic counterweight to regional opposition, including from Israel [1], [2].
The discussions are set to take place in Ankara, Turkey, during the NATO summit that begins Tuesday evening [3]. The meeting comes after a period of tension that saw Turkey removed from the programme. The U.S. previously ousted the country from the deal following Turkey's decision to purchase the S-400 air-defence system from Russia [1], [2].
By reintegrating Turkey into the F-35 programme, the Trump administration may be seeking to strengthen the NATO alliance's cohesion. The S-400 purchase had created a deep rift, as the U.S. said that the Russian missile system was incompatible with the F-35's stealth technology. This incompatibility led to the original suspension of Turkey's participation.
President Erdogan has long sought the return of the fighter jets to modernize Turkey's air force. The outcome of the talks in Ankara will determine if the U.S. is willing to overlook the Russian hardware in exchange for improved bilateral cooperation. The move would signal a new chapter in how the U.S. manages security partnerships with NATO members who maintain complex ties with Moscow [1], [3].
“Trump is expected to tell Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that he is ready to restore Turkey's access to the F-35 fighter-jet programme.”
Restoring Turkey's access to the F-35 programme would represent a pragmatic pivot by the U.S. to prioritize NATO unity over the strict enforcement of penalties regarding Russian military imports. It suggests a willingness to trade technological security concerns for improved diplomatic leverage and stability in a volatile region.
