NN ONLINE:
The close relationship between U.S. President Donald Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is bringing the two countries closer to resolving Turkey’s exclusion from the F-35 fighter jet program, the U.S. ambassador to Ankara said Wednesday.
Ambassador Tom Barrack, who also serves as Trump’s special envoy for Syria, said on social media that the “positive relationship” between the leaders has created a new atmosphere of cooperation, leading to the most productive discussions on the F-35 issue in nearly a decade.
Turkey was removed from the F-35 program during Trump’s first term after purchasing the Russian-made S-400 air defense system, raising U.S. concerns that the missile system could compromise F-35 security. Ankara has sought readmission, noting its $1.4 billion investment before being suspended in 2019. The U.S. also imposed sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act in 2020.
Barrack said discussions continue on Turkey’s desire to rejoin the program while maintaining its S-400 system, with hopes for a breakthrough in the coming months that would satisfy both U.S. security requirements and Turkish interests.
While barred from F-35 deliveries, Turkey is strengthening its air force with Eurofighter Typhoons, U.S.-made F-16s, and developing its own KAAN fifth-generation fighter jet, expected in 2028.
Trump and Erdogan, who met at the White House in September, have maintained a strong personal rapport. Previous U.S. administrations kept Turkey at a distance due to human rights concerns, ties with Russia, and tensions with regional allies. Trump has also viewed Erdogan as a key intermediary on conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
