By Hakkı Öcal, Milliyet, July 7, 2025
The debate over whether the United States should sell F-35 fighter jets to Turkey has resurfaced. A report published by the Center for American Progress (CAP), a think tank closely aligned with the Democratic Party, argues that delivering F-35s to Turkey would be a mistake. The report’s reasoning centers on Turkey’s purchase of the Russian S-400 air defense system and its implications for NATO’s security.
According to the CAP report, Turkey’s acquisition of the S-400 system poses a significant risk to the operational security of the F-35 program. The report claims that the Russian system could potentially collect sensitive data on the F-35’s stealth capabilities, which could then be shared with Russia. This, they argue, would compromise not only U.S. national security but also the security of NATO allies operating the F-35.
The report also points to Turkey’s strained relations with the U.S. and some NATO allies, citing issues such as Turkey’s military operations in Syria, its stance on the Eastern Mediterranean, and its domestic political developments. These factors, according to the authors, raise concerns about Turkey’s reliability as a NATO partner.However, the report overlooks several key points.
First, Turkey was an early partner in the F-35 program, contributing financially and industrially to its development. Turkish companies still play a role in the production of F-35 components, despite Turkey’s removal from the program in 2019 following the S-400 purchase.
Second, Turkey has repeatedly stated that it has taken measures to ensure the S-400 system remains separate from NATO systems, addressing concerns about potential data leaks.The CAP’s stance reflects a broader tension in U.S.-Turkey relations, where strategic interests often clash with political considerations.
The report suggests that the Biden administration should prioritize NATO’s cohesion and security over re-engaging Turkey in the F-35 program. Yet, it fails to acknowledge that excluding Turkey, a key NATO ally with a strategic geographic position, could weaken the alliance’s southern flank.This debate is not new, but it highlights the ongoing challenges in U.S.-Turkey relations. The question remains: Can the two countries find a way to reconcile their differences, or will mistrust continue to dominate their partnership?
Source: https://www.milliyet.com.tr/yazarlar/hakki-ocal/abd-turkiyeye-f-35-vermemeliymis-cunku-7402775
