Turkey is once again sparking conversations about its controversial Russian S-400 missile defense systems. Recent reports suggest President Erdogan raised the issue with Vladimir Putin, fueling hopes that Turkey might finally resolve a long-standing dispute with the United States.
Back in 2017, Turkey’s decision to buy the advanced S-400s from Russia caused a major rift with Washington. The US argued that these Russian systems, especially when deployed near NATO aircraft, posed unacceptable security risks. The consequence was swift and severe: Turkey was kicked out of the F-35 fighter jet program and hit with US sanctions. This left Turkey’s air force modernization plans in limbo, despite their significant contributions to the F-35 program.
Now, it seems Ankara is eager to turn a new page. Turkish officials believe that distancing themselves from the S-400s could lead to the lifting of US sanctions and, crucially, unlock access to advanced American combat aircraft, like the F-35s they once expected. They’re even hoping their role as a diplomatic intermediary in the Ukraine conflict might encourage Russia to be more flexible on the S-400 issue.
While Turkey has pursued alternative solutions, like upgrading its F-16 fleet and developing its own KAAN fighter, the desire for top-tier US jets remains strong. Washington, however, has been consistent: for Turkey to rejoin Western fighter programs, the S-400s must go.
The exact fate of these powerful Russian systems – whether they’ll be returned, mothballed, or moved – is still up in the air. What’s clear is that Turkey is navigating a delicate diplomatic dance, trying to mend ties with the West while maintaining leverage with Russia. Its quest for modern airpower continues to be a driving force in its strategic decisions.
Source: https://english.pravda.ru/world/165255-turkey-s400-return-us-f35-fighter-jets/
