John Kirby, the Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the White House National Security Council, announced that the United States is discussing the possibility of Turkey’s return to the American F-35 fighter jet program. However, this return is contingent on Turkey’s abandonment of the Russian S-400 missile defense systems. This information was reported by TASS.
Kirby emphasized that the F-35 program would be incompatible with Turkey’s use of the S-300 or S-400 missiles.
He further highlighted that discussions are ongoing, and if Turkey manages to address concerns regarding this matter, its involvement in the F-35 program may be restored.
Previously, the US State Department approved the sale of F-35 fighter jets and necessary equipment to Greece.
In total, Athens requested up to 40 fifth-generation aircraft, including fighters, engines, communication equipment, logistics systems, training and support, as well as spare parts.
The United States State Department made the decision to sell F-16 fighter jets and equipment to Turkey for $23 billion.
It was previously reported that Turkey is willing to support Sweden’s NATO membership in exchange for the delivery of American fighter jets.
