The US demands that Turkey abandon the S-400 to return to the F-35 program

The United States declared the need to stop the operation of the Turkish S-400 system if Turkey expects to return to participation in the F-35 program. An American diplomat reported that discussions continue and Washington is considering the possibility of resuming cooperation in the field of military aviation subject to compliance with legislation regulating export restrictions and compatibility of weapons systems within defense projects.

Turkey stopped participating in the F-35 program after acquiring Russian S-400 air defense systems. The delivery of these complexes was carried out in 2017, after which the parties repeatedly exchanged statements regarding the conditions of a possible settlement of the issue. The American side assessed the presence of Russian systems as a risk factor for allied defense programs and indicated the need to exclude them from operation.

According to the American representative, negotiations on Turkey’s return to the program and discussions of conditions continue on a regular basis. The diplomat noted that the dialogue between the leaders of the two countries contributes to the discussion of security issues, as well as allows considering the possibility of reaching an agreement at the level of defense departments. It is reported that Turkey is considering solution options that may correspond to defense requirements and at the same time maintain existing technological advantages.

The American diplomat described the current stage of contacts as more productive compared to previous years and noted the presence of positions on which the countries can seek joint solutions. According to him, the parties expect progress towards an agreement that takes into account the defense requirements of both countries and ensures compliance with obligations within existing NATO agreements.

In Ankara, they state that the purchase of Russian systems was due to the need to strengthen air defense and ensure independence in matters of territorial security. Turkey emphasizes that the S-400 complexes remain part of the existing defense infrastructure and there are currently no confirmed plans to withdraw them from operation.

The American side believes that the operation of Russian systems is not compatible with the F-35 program, since this affects the protection of technologies and identification systems, and also creates technical risks when integrating military infrastructure. Based on this, Washington emphasizes the need to comply with legislation regulating the conditions for participation of foreign states in defense cooperation programs.

During recent negotiations, options for a possible compromise solution are being discussed that would ensure compliance with requirements and at the same time preserve Turkey’s defense interests. Among the options under consideration are mechanisms that involve technical control and the application of monitoring procedures for the operation of systems. These proposals may be aimed at reaching an agreement without the complete dismantling of the complexes and developing schemes that take into account security requirements and the interests of the participants.

Negotiations continue within the framework of bilateral dialogue, as well as in the context of interaction of states within the structure of defense mechanisms. It is expected that separate decisions on issues of compatibility of weapons and participation in programs may be the subject of detailed consultations at the next stage.

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