The F-35 fighter jet procurement process between the US and Türkiye, had been halted for some time following tensions that began with Turkey’s purchase of the S-400 air defense system. However, recent developments may signal a new era in this process. Statements by Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler and the U.S. State Department's responses remain the focus of Turkey's air force modernization efforts and defense policies.
Discussions on Returning to the F-35 Program
Minister of National Defense Yaşar GulerIn his statement to the TBMM Planning and Budget Commission, Turkey The progress of the KAAN fighter jet project has affected the US's attitude towards the F-35 Güler's statements suggested that there may be a change in the US's attitude towards the F-35s. However, US Department of State, denied these allegations in a written statement:
“The conditions required for the supply of F-35s to Turkey are known to everyone and our policy has not changed.”
US Conditions for F-35 Procurement
USA, Turkey S-400 air defense systems to be removed from inventory and has long required the US to adopt a defense policy compatible with NATO. However, the US told Voice of America, There are no talks about purchasing the F-35 or returning to the program. stated.
KAAN Project and Turkey's New Defense Strategy
Minister of National Defense Güler, Turkey The development process of the KAAN fighter jet, He stated that it affected the US's attitude. Turkey's fifth generation fighter jet project KAAN will have reached an important stage by 2025.
Comparison of KAAN and F-35
- KAAN: Turkey's national fighter jet project, A 5th generation aircraft It is designed and equipped with advanced radar, avionics and weapon systems.
- F-35: Produced by the USA A multi-role fighter aircraft that stands out with its stealth and avionics superiority.
Türkiye is using the progress in the KAAN project as a trump card to return to the F-35 program and Request to purchase 40 F-35s states that it continues.
F-16 Block 70 Procurement: Current Status
Turkey, Procurement of F-16 Block 70 Viper fighter jets and made an agreement with the United States for this purpose. A payment of $1,4 billion However, instead of purchasing the F-16 modernization kit, this modernization It was decided to be built in TUSAŞ facilities.
Güler's F-16 Statements
- 40 F-16 Block 70 Vipers: Türkiye will provide approximately 100,000 TL for the procurement of these aircraft. 6,5-7 billion dollars allocated budget.
- Modernization Kits Abandoned: Türkiye, Instead of purchasing 79 F-16 modernization kits, this process will be realized through TUSAŞ with local resources.
This decision is considered a strategic step in line with Turkey's goals of localization and independence in the defense industry.
US-Türkiye Defense Relations and Future Prospects
NATO Harmonization and Cooperation
The US said in its statement that Turkey should continue its cooperation with NATO “a critical priority” However, the S-400 issue remains one of the most important obstacles in US-Türkiye relations.
Turkey's Alternatives
While Türkiye continues its efforts to normalize its relations with the United States, it also focuses on domestic projects in its defense industry. KAAN and HURJET projects, are among the most important examples of these efforts.
Expectations in the F-35 and F-16 Procurement Process
Turkey's Efforts to return to F-35 program, will be shaped depending on the dynamics of current political and military relations with the United States. However, Turkey's, With its investments in national projects such as KAAN and HÜRJET The goal of establishing an independent defense capacity will be the cornerstone of the country's future defense policies.
Turkey's Request to purchase 40 F-35s and demand to take back production share, will continue to be a critical topic in the talks with the US. On the other hand, Procurement of F-16 Block 70 Viper aircraft and carrying out modernization domestically stands out as a concrete step supporting Turkey's goal of independence in the defense industry.
