The United States is considering the reopening of F-35 fighter-jet sales to Turkey, according to reports this week.
The move would signal a major shift in U.S. defense policy toward a key NATO ally, though it risks straining relations with Israel, which opposes the sale.
Discussions regarding the potential deal involve an initial package of six jets [1]. The arrangement also includes a linked engine deal valued at $700 million [2]. These developments come as the U.S. looks to lift sanctions and restore Turkey's access to advanced weaponry to strengthen the alliance within NATO.
Reports from Monday indicated that President Donald Trump is expected to make an announcement regarding the unblocking of the sale [3]. The timing of these discussions is tied to the NATO summit taking place in Ankara [3].
However, the deal has not been finalized. While some reports suggest Turkey is in line for the aircraft, other sources said the U.S. is still reviewing the sale [2].
Israel has expressed public opposition to the transfer of the stealth fighters. Israeli leadership said that such a move could disrupt the regional military balance, and potentially damage strategic interests [4].
This tension highlights the difficult balancing act the U.S. administration faces between maintaining a cohesive NATO front and supporting its security partnerships in the Middle East.
“The United States is considering the reopening of F-35 fighter-jet sales to Turkey.”
The potential sale of F-35s to Turkey represents a strategic gamble by the U.S. to stabilize its relationship with Ankara and solidify NATO's eastern flank. By lifting the ban, the U.S. would prioritize collective alliance strength over the specific security concerns of Israel, which views the advanced capabilities of the F-35 as a critical component of its own qualitative military edge in the region.
