The United States is ready to reintegrate Turkey into the F-35 fighter jet programme, contingent on Ankara resolving the impasse over its acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile defence system, Acting Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland has told CNN Turk on Tuesday.
“While we were negotiating the Patriot sale, Turkey opted for a different path. Resolving the S-400 issue would pave the way for Turkey’s return to the F-35 family, a step we eagerly anticipate. However, it’s imperative to address this matter and ensure Turkey’s robust air defence capabilities,” Nuland stated in the interview she gave during her recent visit to Ankara, aimed at bolstering US-Turkey relations.
Her visit on 28-29 January underscored a renewed effort to rejuvenate bilateral ties, further reinforced by Turkey’s approval of Sweden’s NATO membership.
The dialogue also encompassed Turkey’s pursuit of acquiring US-made F-16 jets and modernisation kits, still awaiting Congress’s nod. Nuland emphasised the strategic importance of Turkey enhancing its F-16 fleet, underlining its significance for American security and the notion of shared responsibilities among allies. “Turkey’s acquisition of these jets remains a priority for the USA,” she affirmed.
This announcement follows the US government’s advancement of a $23 billion sale of 40 new F-16 fighter jets to Turkey, post Ankara’s endorsement of Sweden joining NATO. The deal, however, hinges on the approval of the US Congress, where concerns linger over Turkey’s military activities, especially in Kurdish-majority regions in Iraq and Syria.
The use of F-16 jets in Turkey’s military operations in these areas has raised concerns about regional stability and the welfare of ethnic and religious minorities. Despite Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s commitment to facilitating the jet sale, congressional apprehensions persist, particularly regarding Turkey’s stance towards Kurdish groups and adherence to international sanctions against Russia.
