19 stories found
Turkish media are speculating on Ankara's next move regarding its S-400 missile systems, suggesting a potential return to the F-35 program without severing ties with Russia, though the Defense Ministry has not confirmed any developments.
Greece is entering the F-35 fighter jet program, joining a 'closed club' of nations, while Turkey is reportedly looking for a way out of its S-400 missile system agreement.
According to the Jerusalem Post, Turkey may not need F-35 jets as it is already testing its military arsenal in Libya. This comes as the US government reportedly commits to reintegrating Ankara into the F-35 program.
The signatories, from the Democratic Party, warn that such a decision would send the wrong strategic message to the US’ partners in the Eastern Mediterranean The post 18 Members of Congress speak out against Turkey’s reinstatement in the F-35 program appeared first on ProtoThema English.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan made extensive statements regarding Turkey-US relations, the NATO Summit in Ankara, CAATSA sanctions, the F-35 program, and the Turkish defense industry.
Hong Kong and Beijing have heightened security measures and surveillance ahead of the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square crackdown. This includes increased police presence and restrictions on public gatherings, particularly in Hong Kong where past vigils have been held.
Lockheed Martin's F-35 program, involving one of the most advanced aircraft ever designed, is projected to cost the US government an estimated $2 trillion for acquisition and decades of maintenance.
The Pentagon has withheld its annual review of the costly F-35 program, citing concerns over watchdog oversight. This decision has drawn criticism and raised questions about transparency.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that Turkey is close to an agreement with the United States regarding its return to the F-35 fighter jet program. He also addressed issues concerning the S-400 missile systems and relations with Israel during an interview.
The executive director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council (HALC), Eddie Zemenides, expressed reservations about the potential re-entry of Turkey into the F-35 program, citing serious obstacles despite former President Trump's positive stance.
Donald Trump suggested that Vladimir Putin feels pressure to end the war in Ukraine and called for Congress to pass defense funding, while NATO prepares for Trump's visit to Turkey amidst discussions of 'Trump management'.
Turkish President Erdogan is reportedly considering selling the Russian S-400 missile systems to South Korea as a way to re-enter the US F-35 fighter jet program, which Turkey was excluded from after acquiring the S-400s.
The Italian Court of Auditors is scrutinizing the F-35 program, focusing on issues related to governance, delays, and escalating costs, noting Italy's limited partner role compared to US leadership.
Turkey is reportedly considering selling its Russian S-400 air defense systems to the UAE, a move that could significantly alter West Asia's air defense landscape and potentially facilitate Turkey's return to the F-35 program.
A Turkish newspaper reports that transferring Russian-made S-400 air defense systems to a third Gulf country is emerging as a likely scenario to lift U.S. CAATSA sanctions and restart F-35 program discussions.
Turkish President Erdoğan stated it would be a mistake for Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis to question Turkey's right to acquire F-35s, emphasizing that Aegean issues are matters for leaders. Mitsotakis, however, asserted legal obstacles to Turkey rejoining the F-35 program and called Turkey's casus belli an anachronism.
Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis commented on developments ahead of the EU Summit, stating that Greece's achievements since 2019 far exceed what some neighboring countries are now claiming, particularly regarding Turkey's F-35 program aspirations.
US Vice President J.D. Vance stated that the American government is reviewing the potential return of Turkey to the F-35 program and the procurement of fighter jets, assessing if legal conditions are met.
Recent statements by US Ambassador to Turkey, Tom Barrack, regarding Turkey's potential return to the F-35 program, Hezbollah, and Israel, have sparked intense debate and activity in the US Congress.