Israel Warns F35 Sale to Turkey Could Undermine Its Air Superiority

Israeli security officials are deeply concerned about reports that U.S. President Donald Trump may approve the sale of advanced F35 stealth fighter jets to Turkey. The potential deal, seen as a diplomatic concession to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, raises fears in Israel that its future operational capabilities against Iran, Syria, and Lebanon could be significantly compromised.

Turkey, which has a history of hostile rhetoric towards Israel and is considered by Jerusalem as an adversary, is also seeking to purchase F110 engines from General Electric for its own fighter jet development program. Israel is quietly working to maintain the freeze on the F35 deal, fearing that advanced stealth technology in Turkish hands would pose an unprecedented threat to the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) air superiority.

Turkey's involvement in multiple regional arenas exacerbates Israeli concerns. Ankara is engaged in efforts to influence negotiations with Iran, supports Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood in Gaza, and is expanding its military presence in Syria. Additionally, Turkey is increasingly active in the Eastern Mediterranean maritime domain, challenging Israeli and allied interests.

The F35's capabilities extend beyond bombing; it excels in detecting ground targets and sharing intelligence with other aircraft, abilities Israel has relied on in recent conflicts with Iran. Israeli officials worry that Turkey could use these capabilities to disrupt IDF operations in Syria, Lebanon, and Iranian airspace, while also gaining insights into the jet's strengths and vulnerabilities.

In response, Israel is strengthening a strategic alliance with Greece and Cyprus, involving joint military exercises and arms acquisitions to counterbalance Turkey's growing influence. Recent joint air drills between the Israeli and Greek air forces over the Aegean Sea underscore this emerging anti-Turkish bloc. Failure to prevent the F35 sale to Turkey would be viewed in Israel as a major strategic setback.