For years, Turkey has faced major setbacks in its quest to buy the advanced F-35 fighter jets from the United States. But now, it looks like there might be a breakthrough. On November 26, Turkey’s Minister of National Defense, Yaşar Güler, shared the exciting news that the US may be ready to deliver the highly sought-after F-35 jets to Turkey—if diplomatic talks continue to progress smoothly.
A Long Road to the F-35
Turkey first joined the F-35 program back in 2007 as one of the countries that would help build the jets. Ankara had big plans to buy 100 F-35 jets from the US. However, things took a turn in 2019 when Turkey decided to buy the Russian-made S-400 missile defense system. This move angered the US and NATO, who believed the S-400 system could jeopardize security and the relationship between NATO members.
Because of this decision, Turkey was kicked out of the F-35 program in 2021, despite already paying for and receiving six of these advanced jets. They never got to keep or fly them, leaving Turkey in a tough spot. But now, things seem to be changing.
A New Chance for Turkey?
During a recent session at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, Minister Güler gave hope to Turkey’s military ambitions. He confirmed that Turkey has officially asked the US again to purchase more F-35 jets. He also mentioned that the US seems to be rethinking its previous decision. “Now that they’ve seen our progress with the KAAN fighter jet,” Güler explained, “the US might be willing to change its stance.”
The KAAN is Turkey’s homegrown fighter jet, which is part of the country’s push to modernize its air force. It’s a sign that Turkey isn’t just waiting for the F-35s to come to them—they’re building their own advanced jets too. Still, getting back into the F-35 program is not a done deal yet.
Turkey’s Backup Plan: The KAAN Fighter
Even though Turkey’s hopes for the F-35 are alive, the country has also been focusing on developing its own military technology. The KAAN fighter jet, which is being developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries, is a key part of this strategy. Turkey is determined to make sure it has the airpower it needs, no matter what.
The US has made it clear that it is closely watching Turkey’s advancements with the KAAN. If the US sees Turkey succeeding with its own fighter jet, it could change its view on rejoining the F-35 program. But Turkey’s dream of owning the F-35 jets is still uncertain, as there are many political hurdles ahead.
A Shift in the US-Turkey Relationship
In a surprising twist, Güler also revealed that the US has recently stopped opposing Turkey’s use of the Russian-made S-400 system. This marks a big shift in the US-Turkey defense relationship. For years, the US pressured Turkey to give up the S-400 system, but now, that pressure seems to have eased.
While this development is important, it doesn’t necessarily mean that Turkey will be allowed to re-enter the F-35 program. Some reports suggest that the US might require Turkey to stop using the S-400 or agree not to transfer it to another country. However, Turkish officials have remained firm in their stance, saying that they need the S-400 for their national defense.
Turkey’s Growing Military Power
While the F-35 story is still unfolding, Turkey is not sitting idle. The country has been working on modernizing its air force, including the development of its own advanced aircraft like the KAAN and the HURJET, a light combat jet. Turkey has even scaled back its $23 billion plan to buy F-16 jets from the US, opting to cancel the purchase of 79 modernization kits for its existing fleet. Instead, Turkey will handle the modernization work on its own at its Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS) facilities.
This shift shows that Turkey is becoming more self-reliant when it comes to military technology, which could give it more leverage in future talks with the US.
What’s Next for Turkey and the F-35?
Despite the positive signs, it’s still unclear whether Turkey will fully rejoin the F-35 program or continue to rely on its own domestic aircraft like the KAAN. The geopolitical tensions and ongoing diplomatic negotiations will play a huge role in determining the outcome.
One thing is for sure: Turkey is determined to ensure its air force remains modern and capable, whether that means relying on the F-35 or going its own way with the KAAN fighter jet.
As Turkey continues to push for the F-35 and further develop its own aircraft, the world will be watching closely to see what happens next. Will Turkey finally get the jets it paid for, or will it carve its own path to air superiority? The coming months could hold the answer.
