US Report Sparks Ankara’s Hopes for F-35 Reinstatement Amid Greek Procurement Deal
F35
A recent US Congressional Research Service report has reignited speculation in Ankara about a potential return to the F-35 fighter jet program. The report suggests that the US Congress might reconsider its ban on Turkey’s participation, raising hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough.
According to Turkish media, the report also discusses the case of the United Arab Emirates, which was similarly excluded from the F-35 program due to its ties with China.
Turkey’s F-35 Exclusion and the Path to Reinstatement
Turkey, one of the original nine partner nations in the F-35 program, had plans to acquire 100 jets before being expelled over its 2019 purchase of the Russian S-400 missile defense system. As a result, Turkey faced sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).
For Turkey to rejoin the F-35 program, US Congress would need to approve an amendment lifting CAATSA sanctions, a politically complex process.
The report highlights Turkey’s critical role in the program’s supply chain. More than 900 components, including essential parts like the fuselage and landing gear, are produced in Turkey.
Greece Advances F-35 Procurement Amid Regional Tensions
While Turkey awaits a potential resolution, Greece is moving forward with a €3.5 billion deal to purchase 20 F-35 fighter jets, reinforcing its long-term defense strategy.
The procurement is a significant milestone for the Hellenic Air Force, aligning with Athens’ broader efforts to modernize its aerial capabilities amid ongoing tensions with Turkey over the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean.
The total cost of Greece’s F-35 program, including infrastructure upgrades and weapons systems, is expected to reach €4.6 billion. The first group of Hellenic Air Force pilots will begin training in the US between 2027 and 2028, with the initial F-35 deliveries expected by 2029-2030.
Greece has expressed interest in expanding its fleet to 40 F-35s, with an initial batch of 20 and a follow-up order for another 20.
