Trump indicates backing for a possible sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey
Trump supports a possible F-35 sale to Turkey, even in the face of sanctions, congressional limitations, and increasing resistance from Israel and lawmakers.
US President Donald Trump is anticipated to endorse the possible sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey during his visit to Ankara, as per two sources acquainted with the situation. This move could represent a crucial advancement in reestablishing defense relations between Washington and Ankara, despite existing legal and political challenges.
The proposed move would signify Trump’s most robust endorsement of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan since resuming his position, as both leaders aim to enhance collaboration during a NATO summit in Ankara. Nonetheless, congressional limitations and current US legislation continue to pose considerable obstacles to any potential agreement.
In 2020, Turkey was excluded from the F-35 stealth fighter program following its acquisition of Russia’s S-400 missile system. This decision led Washington to impose sanctions on a significant Turkish defense company due to concerns that the Russian system might jeopardize the security of the advanced U.S. aircraft.
Under existing US law, Turkey is prohibited from rejoining the F-35 program or receiving the aircraft as long as it maintains the S-400 missile system. Sources familiar with the discussions indicate that a proposal gaining traction involves transferring the Russian-made system to a third country. However, no agreement has been finalized, and it remains uncertain whether Moscow would consent to such a move under its end-user agreements.
The White House, Turkey’s Foreign Ministry, and the US Embassy in Ankara have not yet provided comments regarding the reports.
Trump has previously suggested a potential advancement in US-Turkey defense relations. When questioned by reporters last month about any potential “gifts” for Turkey, the president responded, “I’m going to probably do something that will make them thrilled.”
Vice President JD Vance stated that the administration was assessing whether Turkey had fulfilled the legal criteria necessary for the transfer of the fifth-generation fighter jets.
“Pete and the entire team are currently reviewing this, as there are specific aspects that we must certify have occurred to ensure compliance with American law,” Vance stated, referencing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed optimism last week, noting that Erdogan and Trump possessed a “strong political will” to eliminate the US sanctions placed on Turkey, though he refrained from offering a specific timetable.
The renewed effort arises alongside the strengthening ties between the two NATO allies. In December, US Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack characterized the recent discussions between Washington and Ankara as “the most fruitful conversations we have had on this topic in nearly a decade.”
Despite the improving relations, the proposal encounters resistance from both US lawmakers and regional allies.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his strong opposition to the sale of F-35 aircraft or fighter jet engines to Turkey, cautioning that such a decision could disrupt the regional military balance.
“I believe providing them with F-35s or the engines for their fighter jets is unwise,” Netanyahu stated in an interview, contending that such a decision could “disturb the power balance in the Middle East.”
The recent discussions revolve around the Trump administration’s decision to inform Congress about plans to sell jet engines worth over $700 million for Turkey’s indigenous KAAN fighter aircraft program. Despite objections from certain members of Congress, the administration moved forward with the notification, indicating a wider initiative to enhance defense cooperation with Ankara, even in light of enduring political sensitivities.
