Trump says he is undecided on F-35s for Turkey
President Trump said Wednesday he is undecided on whether to readmit Turkey into the U.S.’s F-35 fighter jet program after expelling the country during his first term. “I haven’t totally made up my mi
President Trump said Wednesday he is undecided on whether to readmit Turkey into the U.S.’s F-35 fighter jet program after expelling the country durin
Read Full Story at The Hill →Why This Matters
The fate of Turkey’s reinstatement in the F-35 program is more than a defense procurement decision—it’s a litmus test for NATO cohesion and a signal to adversaries like Russia and China about Washington’s resolve. A reversal could signal a pragmatic shift in U.S. foreign policy, while continued exclusion would underscore lingering mistrust in Ankara’s strategic commitments.
Background Context
Turkey’s ejection from the F-35 program in 2019 stemmed from its purchase of Russia’s S-400 missile defense system, a move that violated NATO interoperability standards and triggered U.S. sanctions. The exclusion disrupted a $1.4 billion Turkish industrial partnership in the program, leaving critical supply chains and pilot training in limbo amid geopolitical tensions.
What Happens Next
A potential reversal would require congressional approval, testing bipartisan patience with Turkey’s human rights record and regional actions, such as its Syria operations or stance on NATO enlargement. Meanwhile, Ankara’s push for reinstatement collides with U.S. defense contractors’ competing interests, including the need to stabilize supply chains and counterbalance rising defense costs.
Bigger Picture
This decision reflects a broader erosion of Cold War-era defense alliances, where traditional allies increasingly pursue independent procurement strategies. As the U.S. balances rivalry with China and Russia, Turkey’s case highlights the fragility of multilateral defense agreements in an era of shifting alliances and economic interdependence.
