Turkey is in pursuit of a solution to rejoin the American F-35 fighter jet program following its expulsion due to the purchase of the Russian S-400 missile system. Ankara is advocating for an amendment in the 2025 US defense budget (NDAA) that would exempt them from sanctions related to the S-400.
Recent reports suggest Turkey has shifted its defense strategy to focus on securing F-35 jets from the US, showcasing a significant reversal in their stance on the S-400. Ankara seems eager to make concessions to appease Washington, as they plan to formally request the advanced fighters from the US State Department.
Despite hurdles posed by the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), Turkey has proposed various alternative solutions, including storing, inspecting, and even exporting the S-400 missiles. Sources indicate that US officials are receptive to discussions but have not received a purchase request for F-35s from Turkey yet.
Efforts to introduce amendments to the 2025 NDAA have been initiated by Turkey, aiming to find a way out of CAATSA restrictions. The potential amendment could allow Turkey to resume F-35 purchases if the S-400 system remains inactive, offering a glimmer of hope for resolving the ongoing dispute.
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