US Demands Turkey Abandon S-400 for F-35 Purchase

The United States has stated that Turkey must give up its Russian-made S-400 air defense system if it wants to return to the F-35 fighter jet production and procurement program.

U.S. Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack shared this in comments reported by Bloomberg.

The Ambassador reiterated that Washington’s position on the issue has not changed.

Barrack noted that the United States and Turkey are holding talks on the Russian air defense system Ankara ordered in 2017, as well as on Turkey’s wish to rejoin the F-35 fifth-generation fighter program.

Donald Trump raised the matter with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the White House in September, signaling he is open to resuming cooperation.

At the same time, the Ambassador’s remarks underline Washington’s stance, supported by other NATO members, that Turkey must abandon the S-400 system, which remains a key obstacle to defense cooperation with the United States.

“As laid out in US law, Türkiye must no longer operate or possess the S-400 system to return to the F-35 program,” Barrack said.

Last week, Barrack said the issue could be resolved within four to six months and that Turkey is close to giving up the S-400.

Washington argues the Russian system is incompatible with NATO equipment and risks exposing sensitive information.

Turkey’s acquisition of the S-400, delivered in 2019, led to its removal from the F-35 program and prompted the United States to impose sanctions on several Turkish defense firms.

The restrictions prevent them from purchasing many types of U.S. military equipment.

If resolved, Turkey could resume participation in the F-35 procurement program, significantly boosting its Air Force’s capabilities.