Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed optimism about Türkiye’s potential re-entry into the U.S. F-35 fighter jet program, citing a positive stance from U.S. President Donald Trump. Speaking after the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Erdoğan emphasized the importance of transforming Washington’s willingness into tangible actions, noting ongoing discussions between the two nations.
Türkiye was expelled from the F-35 program in 2019 following its acquisition of Russia’s S-400 air defense system. The United States expressed concerns that the Russian system could jeopardize the security of F-35 technology, particularly its integration with NATO systems. This led to the imposition of sanctions on Türkiye’s defense procurement agency under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).
The F-35 dispute remains a significant issue in Türkiye-U.S. defense relations, with Ankara persistently seeking a resolution and reinstatement into the program. Erdoğan’s latest comments highlight Türkiye’s continued desire to address the impasse and restore its partnership within the framework of the F-35 initiative.
Both countries are reportedly engaged in ongoing dialogue to resolve the matter, with Türkiye hopeful for a constructive outcome that aligns with its defense priorities while satisfying U.S. security concerns. The situation underscores the complex dynamics of international defense cooperation and the geopolitical implications of military alliances and procurements.