Debate Intensifies as Washington Reviews Ankara’s Request to Rejoin the Advanced Fighter Jet Program
The possibility of Turkey rejoining the U.S.-led F-35 fighter jet program is drawing growing attention across the Eastern Mediterranean, with Israel and Greece closely monitoring developments ahead of a major NATO summit.
Recent reports suggest that the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is reviewing ways to improve Defense cooperation with Turkey, including discussions surrounding Ankara’s long-standing effort to regain access to the F-35 program. Turkey was removed from the project in 2019 after purchasing the Russian-made S-400 air defense system, a move Washington argued posed security risks to sensitive military technology.
As talks continue, concerns are emerging among regional allies who fear that a Turkish return to the program could alter the military balance in the Eastern Mediterranean. The issue has become one of the most closely watched defense debates in the region, placing the spotlight on the evolving Turkey F-35 Return discussion.
Why Turkey Was Removed From the Program
Turkey was originally one of the key partners in the multinational F-35 program and contributed to the production of various aircraft components. Ankara also planned to purchase more than 100 of the advanced stealth fighters.
However, relations between Washington and Ankara became strained after Turkey acquired Russia’s S-400 missile defense system. U.S. officials argued that operating the S-400 alongside the F-35 could expose sensitive information about the aircraft’s capabilities and compromise NATO security. As a result, Turkey was officially removed from the program in 2019.
Since then, Turkish officials have repeatedly expressed interest in returning to the project, arguing that Turkey remains an important NATO ally and deserves access to advanced defense technology.
The renewed discussions surrounding the Turkey F-35 Return have gained momentum amid broader efforts to improve relations between Washington and Ankara.
Trump Administration Signals Possible Opening
Recent comments from President Trump have fueled speculation that progress may be possible.
During remarks ahead of the upcoming NATO summit, Trump indicated that discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan were moving in a positive direction. U.S. officials have also reportedly been reviewing legal and technical issues that would need to be resolved before any agreement could move forward.
At the same time, Washington has already moved toward approving the sale of GE F110 engines for Turkey’s indigenous KAAN fighter aircraft program. The proposed engine package is viewed by many analysts as a sign of warming defense ties between the two countries.
Despite these developments, experts caution that significant obstacles remain. Congressional approval would likely be required, and concerns surrounding Turkey’s continued possession of the S-400 system have not disappeared.
Israel Voices Security Concerns
Among the countries paying closest attention to the issue is Israel.
Israeli officials have consistently expressed reservations about any move that could allow Turkey to acquire the advanced stealth aircraft. Israel currently operates its own customized version of the F-35 and considers the platform a critical part of its military advantage in the region.
Israel’s ambassador to Greece, Noam Katz, recently argued that Turkey’s behavior in the region raises serious questions about whether supplying the aircraft would be beneficial for regional stability. According to Katz, Israel believes that providing Turkey with the jets is not desirable under current circumstances.
Israeli concerns extend beyond military competition. Security officials have reportedly noted that several components used in the F-35 program involve Israeli-developed technologies, making the debate even more sensitive.
As a result, the Turkey F-35 Return issue has become an important topic in Israel’s defense and diplomatic discussions.
Greece Also Watching Closely
Greece has joined Israel in expressing caution regarding Turkey’s potential return to the program.
Athens has invested heavily in modernizing its armed forces and has already ordered F-35 aircraft as part of its broader defense strategy. Greek leaders argue that preserving a technological advantage is important for maintaining stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Several Greek political figures have urged the United States to carefully evaluate any proposal involving additional military equipment for Turkey. Concerns focus on long-standing disputes between the two NATO members regarding maritime boundaries, airspace issues, and regional security matters.
The debate illustrates how the Turkey F-35 Return discussion extends far beyond a simple defense procurement issue and touches on broader geopolitical rivalries.
Congress Remains a Key Obstacle
Even if the White House supports improved defense cooperation with Turkey, Congress could present a significant challenge.
Lawmakers from both parties have raised concerns about Turkey’s continued ownership of the S-400 system and its implications for U.S. national security. Some members of Congress have already urged the administration to reject any sale unless those concerns are fully addressed.
Reports indicate that one possible solution under discussion could involve Turkey transferring its S-400 system to a third country, although no final agreement has been reached.
Looking Ahead
With the NATO summit approaching, discussions surrounding Turkey’s future role in the F-35 program are likely to intensify.
Supporters argue that restoring defense cooperation would strengthen NATO unity and improve relations between Washington and Ankara. Critics counter that unresolved security concerns and regional tensions make such a move risky.
For now, the Turkey F-35 Return remains one of the most important defense questions facing NATO allies. The outcome could influence military cooperation, regional security, and diplomatic relations across the Eastern Mediterranean for years to come.