Recent reports indicate that Turkey is reconsidering its plans to purchase new F-16 fighter jets and upgrade existing ones to Viper configuration. Ankara is exploring alternative options and even contemplating canceling the program altogether.
Following the NATO Summit, Turkish President Erdogan has admitted to challenges in the $23 billion program, seeking assistance from US President Biden. Disagreements between the two sides persist on various issues, including domestic production and aircraft delivery schedules.
Ankara aims to domestically manufacture the 40 new F-16 Vipers it intends to acquire from the US, yet the US government prefers Lockheed Martin to handle production. Turkey argues that domestic production would streamline costs and delivery timelines. Presently, it is projected that the first Turkish Vipers will not be operational until 2030.