Erdogan urges rejoining F-35 program to boost US-Turkey’s ties
In written replies to media inquiries, Erdogan referred to his September 2025 meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington, during which he said he raised Türkiye’s removal from the F-35 program. The Turkish leader described Ankara’s exclusion—linked to its purchase of Russian-made defense systems nearly a decade ago—as “unjust,” noting that he had directly communicated this view to Trump.
Erdogan said Trump’s return to the presidency had opened the door for relations between the two NATO allies to progress in what he described as “a more reasonable and constructive footing.”
Addressing the fighter jet issue directly, Erdogan emphasized that Türkiye’s participation in the program remains both legitimate and necessary. “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 improving relations with the United States and strengthening NATO’s defense capabilities, he said.
On potential defense procurement, Erdogan also commented on discussions over acquiring F-16 Block 70 aircraft from the US, stressing that Ankara expects conditions consistent with alliance principles. He pointed to Türkiye’s decision to purchase Eurofighter jets as an illustration of its approach to meeting defense needs within NATO frameworks.
Turning to legal matters, Erdogan addressed the criminal case in the US involving Türkiye’s state-owned lender Türkiye Halk Bankasi AS. He said Ankara views the accusations as unfounded and has been engaged in dialogue to prevent the bank from facing what he described as “unfair penalties.” He added: “Our hope is to reach a fair outcome that is fully consistent with the law.”
On energy cooperation, Erdogan highlighted growing bilateral ties, particularly in liquefied natural gas. “We have significantly increased our LNG supplies, particularly from the US,” he said, adding that American LNG now holds a “prominent position” in Türkiye’s energy supply structure.
He reiterated Ankara’s broader stance on energy policy, stating: “We act in line with our national interests and our energy security.” Emphasizing Türkiye’s reliance on imported hydrocarbons, Erdogan said a careful and balanced strategy is essential. “As a country that relies on imports for a substantial portion of its hydrocarbon requirements, we must pursue a cautious and balanced approach in all matters that may impact our energy security,” he said.
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