President Donald Trump said the U.S. could lift the ban on Turkey's participation in the F-35 fighter-jet program and related engine bids.
This potential policy shift marks a significant pivot in military relations between the two nations. Reintegrating Turkey into the advanced aircraft program would restore a key NATO ally's aerial capabilities and resolve a long-standing diplomatic friction point.
The remarks occurred Wednesday, June 24, 2024, during a meeting in the White House Oval Office with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan [1, 3]. The discussion took place ahead of the NATO summit scheduled for the following month [2, 3].
Trump said Erdogan was a "respected leader" [1]. The comments came as a response to a reporter's question regarding Erdogan's recent threats toward Israel [1, 2].
Regarding the military hardware, Trump said the administration is open to reversing previous restrictions. "We could re-join the F-35 programme and look at the F-110 engine bids," Trump said [2].
Further addressing the restrictions on military sales, Trump said, "We are looking at lifting the hold on advanced fighter-jet sales to Turkey" [3]. The move would allow Turkey to pursue contracts for the F-110 engines, which are critical for the operation of high-performance aircraft.
Turkey had previously been removed from the program, leading to a protracted effort by Ankara to secure a return to the F-35 fleet and its associated supply chain. The signaling of a possible return suggests a willingness by the U.S. to prioritize strategic partnership with Turkey over previous diplomatic disputes.
“"He's a respected leader."”
The potential restoration of Turkey's status in the F-35 program suggests a strategic recalibration of U.S. foreign policy in the Mediterranean and Middle East. By offering a path back to advanced military procurement, the U.S. may be attempting to strengthen NATO cohesion and incentivize Turkish cooperation on regional security issues, despite ongoing tensions regarding Turkey's rhetoric toward Israel.
