Türkiye seeks F-35s, shows willingness to resolve S-400 dispute

Since the beginning of summer, Türkiye has been actively working to secure F-35 fighter jets from the United States, according to a report by Greece-based Kathimerini.

Türkiye is reportedly willing to make various concessions to Washington, shifting its strategy from defense autonomy. Its stance on Russian S-400 systems has completely changed, and it is now offering various proposals to the United States.

Alternative solutions for S-400s

Türkiye’s proposals include options such as storing the S-400 systems, subjecting them to periodic inspections by American officials, or even transferring them to other countries, Kathimerini asserts. American diplomats who previously deemed these suggestions impractical are now actively evaluating them.

Although the U.S. has shown a willingness to resolve the S-400 issue, Türkiye’s request for F-35s is not yet near approval. To help lift “Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act” (CAATSA) sanctions, Türkiye has worked with legislative circles in Congress to include amendments in the 2025 defense budget.

CAATSA sanctions

The CAATSA law allows the President of the United States to waive, terminate, or impose additional sanctions based on specific reasons related to U.S. national security. Knowing that a Democratic president is unlikely to take such action, Türkiye is aiming to create conditions for a potential Trump administration to address the issue. Additionally, the positive attitude of outgoing U.S. Ambassador Jeff Flake has accelerated the process. Türkiye might make last-minute moves given ongoing discussions and the upcoming U.S. elections.