Trump May Restore Turkey’s Access to F-35 Fighter Program
American President Donald Trump is expected to announce a possible pathway for Turkey to rejoin the F-35 stealth fighter program during his meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the NATO summit in Ankara this week, New York Times claimed.
The move would reverse a decision made during Trump’s first term, when Turkey was removed from the F-35 program in 2019 after purchasing Russia’s S-400 air defense system. Washington had argued that the Russian system could compromise the security of the advanced fighter jets by allowing Moscow to gather intelligence on their stealth capabilities.
Senior U.S. administration officials said Trump is likely to signal his intention to restore Turkey’s access to the program, although the exact process and timeline remain unclear. The decision could face opposition from members of Congress, who have previously imposed restrictions preventing the sale of F-35 aircraft to Turkey unless Ankara no longer possesses the Russian S-400 systems.
Officials said one possible solution under discussion is transferring the S-400 systems to a third party or making them inoperable by removing key components. However, no final agreement has been reached.
Turkey has long sought to return to the F-35 program, arguing that it remains a key NATO ally and should receive the fighter jets it originally helped fund. The country was also one of the program’s partners before its removal.
Trump has expressed support for improving relations with Erdogan and previously hinted that he would bring a “gift” that would make the Turkish leader “very happy.” However, the administration must still overcome legal and political hurdles before any aircraft deliveries can take place.
The issue comes as Trump prepares to attend a NATO summit focused on alliance unity, defense spending, and ongoing security challenges. Relations within NATO have been strained over issues including military spending commitments, Russia’s war in Ukraine, and differing approaches toward regional conflicts.
The possible F-35 agreement would mark a significant shift in U.S.-Turkey defense relations, but its success will depend on negotiations with Congress and Turkey’s handling of the S-400 issue.
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