Turkey discusses F-35s, air force modernization, jet procurement

2024-11-27 06:58:39

(MENAFN) The United States adjusted its stance on the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey after recognizing the advancements made with its domestically developed KAAN fighter jet, Turkish National Defense Minister Yasar Guler stated on Tuesday.

“When the Americans saw that we could build and fly the KAAN, they changed their minds a bit about the F-35,” Guler remarked during a session of the Turkish Parliament's Planning and Budget Commission.

“Now, they are expressing willingness to provide F-35s. However, no progress has been made. We insist on reclaiming our production share and maintain our request to acquire F-35s,” he added.

Guler also emphasized Ankara’s initiatives to modernize the Air Force until the light combat aircraft HURJET and KAAN become operational.

He announced a USD1.4 billion payment for 40 US F-16 Block 70 Viper jets, adding that Turkey will upgrade 79 older F-16s at Turkish Aerospace Industries facilities.

Regarding Eurofighter Typhoon jets, Guler mentioned that Germany has granted the necessary permissions, and procurement discussions are ongoing.

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