Turkey will not receive modern F-35 fighters from the United States until it gives up on purchasing Russian-made S-400 surface-to-air missile systems. This was announced on January 31st by the coordinator for strategic communications at the US National Security Council, John Kirby, during a briefing, the transcript of which was published on the White House website.
This decision is a part of the ongoing tensions between the US and Turkey over the latter’s purchase of the S-400 system, which the US believes is incompatible with the NATO defense system and poses a threat to the F-35 fighter jets. Turkey’s purchase of the S-400 system has been a point of contention between the two countries for years, leading to strained relations and even sanctions from the US.
The US has been clear in its stance that Turkey cannot have both the Russian-made missile defense system and the F-35 fighter jets, which are considered one of the most advanced and versatile aircraft in the world. The F-35 is a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet that has been a key asset in the US military’s operations in recent years.
The US has repeatedly warned Turkey against the purchase of the S-400 system, stating that it would jeopardize the security and interoperability of the NATO alliance. However, Turkey has remained adamant in its decision to purchase the Russian-made system, citing its need for a long-range air defense system.
In response to Turkey’s refusal to change its stance, the US has taken decisive action by suspending Turkey from the F-35 program, halting the delivery of F-35 jets to the country, and imposing sanctions on the Turkish defense industry. This has caused a strain in the US-Turkey relationship, which was already on rocky ground due to other issues such as Turkey’s military operations in Syria and its human rights record.
The US has made it clear that it is willing to work with Turkey to find a solution to the situation, but only if Turkey takes a step back from its purchase of the S-400 system. The US has offered alternatives, such as the US-made Patriot system, which is compatible with the NATO defense system and would not pose a threat to the F-35 fighter jets. However, Turkey has not shown any signs of changing its stance.
The US decision to withhold F-35 fighters from Turkey has significant implications for the country’s air defense capabilities. Turkey has been a key ally for the US in the Middle East, and the loss of the F-35 jets would greatly impact its military capabilities and regional influence.
In addition to the practical implications, this decision also has symbolic importance. The F-35 fighter jet is not just a military asset; it also represents a strong alliance between the US and its allies. By denying Turkey access to the F-35 jets, the US is sending a clear message that it will not tolerate actions that go against the interests of the NATO alliance.
In conclusion, the US decision to withhold F-35 fighters from Turkey until it gives up on the purchase of the S-400 system is a significant move that showcases the US’s commitment to protecting the security and interests of its allies. While the decision may strain the relationship between the two countries in the short term, it is a necessary step to ensure the long-term stability and security of the NATO alliance. Turkey now has a choice to make – to continue with its purchase of the S-400 system and risk damaging its relationship with the US, or to reconsider its decision and maintain its strong partnership with its NATO allies.
