Erdogan urges Türkiye’s re-entry into US-led F-35 fighter jet program

(MENAFN) Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called for Türkiye’s re-entry into the US-led F-35 fighter jet program, saying the move would strengthen bilateral relations with the United States and bolster NATO’s overall security.

In written responses to Bloomberg, Erdogan referred to his September 2025 meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House, describing Türkiye’s 2016 expulsion from the F-35 program over its purchase of Russian military equipment as “unjust.” He added that he personally conveyed his concerns to Trump.

Erdogan said Trump’s return to office presents an opportunity for Ankara and Washington to move toward “a more reasonable and constructive footing.” On the F-35 issue, he stressed: “Türkiye’s receipt of the F-35 aircraft for which it has already paid, and its reintegration into the program, are important and necessary” for improved US ties and NATO defense.

Addressing a potential purchase of F-16 Block 70 jets from the US, Erdogan emphasized that any deal should align with NATO principles, citing Türkiye’s acquisition of Eurofighter jets as a precedent.

On the criminal case against Türkiye’s state-owned lender, Türkiye Halk Bankasi AS, filed in the US, Erdogan described the allegations as “misguided” and said Ankara is negotiating to prevent “unfair penalties.” He added: “Our hope is to reach a fair outcome fully consistent with the law.”

Erdogan also highlighted strengthened bilateral energy cooperation, noting that LNG supplies from the US have significantly increased and now occupy a “prominent position” in Türkiye’s energy supply chain.

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