Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed optimism about Türkiye’s potential reinstatement in the U.S. F-35 fighter jet program, citing a favorable stance from U.S. President Donald Trump. Erdoğan’s comments came after attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where he highlighted ongoing discussions between Ankara and Washington aimed at resolving the issue.
Türkiye was ejected from the F-35 program in 2019 following its acquisition of the Russian S-400 air defense system. The United States raised concerns over possible security risks posed by the Russian technology to the F-35s and their integration with NATO systems. Consequently, Washington imposed sanctions on Türkiye’s defense procurement agency under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).
The exclusion from the F-35 program remains a significant contention in Türkiye-U.S. defense relations. Erdoğan emphasized that Ankara expects the United States’ expressed willingness to restore Türkiye’s participation to be backed by tangible steps. The Turkish president’s remarks suggest a desire for progress in negotiations that could potentially lead to a resolution of this longstanding dispute.
Erdoğan’s statements reflect Türkiye’s continued efforts to mend its defense ties with the United States and regain access to the advanced fighter jet program. The outcome of these diplomatic engagements could have a significant impact on defense strategies and alliances within the region.