Turkey May Rejoin F-35 Program Amid US-Turkey NATO Summit Tensions

Turkey, previously removed from the F-35 stealth fighter jet program due to its purchase of Russian S-400 air defense systems, might be reinstated as an operator of the aircraft. The primary security concern behind the US ban on selling F-35s to Turkey was the risk that integrating Russian defense technology with the American stealth jet could expose sensitive secrets to Russia and China. However, President Donald Trump's recent move to lift this ban, which also includes selling advanced jet engines for Turkey's indigenous Kaan fighter, has sparked significant political opposition, including within the Republican Party, and its approval in Congress remains uncertain.

For Israel, this development alters the strategic landscape. Despite Israel's desire to maintain exclusive access to the region's most advanced air technology, historical precedent shows the US eventually sells its fighter jets, such as the F-15 and F-16, to other countries. The Israeli Defense Forces and Air Force are now preparing for a reality where the F-35 is no longer exclusive to Israel in the Middle East.

At the NATO summit, President Trump stated he would discuss military issues and Iran-related topics with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Regarding the potential F-35 sale, Trump said, "We will consider it." Erdoğan noted that the issue had been raised previously with the US administration and that Turkey was promised five jets.

The possible deal has drawn sharp criticism from Jerusalem. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged the US not to sell the jets to Turkey, describing the Turkish regime as influenced by the Muslim Brotherhood, a movement he called extremist and anti-American. Netanyahu accused Erdoğan of openly calling for Israel's destruction, occupying half of Cyprus, threatening Greece, funding Hamas, and failing to assist the US against Iran. He warned that selling F-35s to Turkey would destabilize the Middle East balance of power, which currently relies on Israel's air superiority and the US presence.

About two weeks ago, Trump referred to Erdoğan as "my friend," recounting that Erdoğan invited him to the summit and suggesting he might do something to please the Turkish leader, emphasizing Turkey's significant military strength.