Turkey is considering redirecting the $1.4 billion paid for the F-16 to the next-generation F-35 aircraft if U.S. President Donald Trump re-admits Turkey to the F-35 program. This decision was announced after a telephone conversation between the presidents of Turkey and the United States in March.
Details of funds redirection
- Initial F-16 Contract: Turkey has ordered 40 F-16 Vipers and related munitions, reducing the total deal value from $23 billion to $7 billion. Turkey has already contributed $1.4 billion as an advance payment.
-Redirection option: If the United States allows Turkey to return to the F-35 program, Ankara may redirect the funds already paid to purchase the F-35. Turkey has already paid for six F-35s, which are stored in the United States and can be transferred to Turkey at no additional cost.
Strategic motives
- Reducing dependence on the F-16: Turkey wants to reduce its dependence on the F-16, which are already outdated and cause problems in operation. At the same time, the F-35s have more advanced technologies and capabilities, which will allow Turkey to strengthen its air force.
- Lifting of sanctions: Turkey is considering the possibility of temporarily deploying Russian S-400s in Syria in order to lift sanctions related to the purchase of these systems. This may contribute to Turkey's return to the F-35 program.
Possible problems
- U.S. opposition: Some members of the U.S. Congress oppose Turkey's return to the F-35 program due to the purchase of the S-400. Republican Senator Jim Rich, head of the Foreign Affairs Committee, said the F-35s would not be transferred to Turkey until the S-400s were removed from Turkish territory.
- Opposition from other countries: Israel and Greece also oppose the sale of the F-35 to Turkey, fearing a change in the balance of power in the region.
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