US Makes Bold Move: Asks Turkey to Relocate Russian S-400s to İncirlik Base in Bid to Rejoin F-35 Program
Turkey and the US: A Potential Compromise on S-400 Missile Systems
A Possible Solution to the F-35 Program Impasse
The United States has proposed a compromise to Turkey regarding its Russian S-400 missile systems, which could pave the way for Turkey’s reinstatement in the F-35 program. According to a report by the Greek daily, Cathimerini, the US has suggested that Turkey place its S-400 systems at the US-run İncirlik military air base.
This proposal would allow Turkey to avoid appearing to be backing down on the international stage while also avoiding any potential violations of its contract with Russia. Former Pentagon official Michael Rubin explained that the White House and the Pentagon presented this proposal to senior Turkish officials in July.
Rubin stated that during their visit to Turkey on July 1-2, 2024, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs Celeste Wallander and Senior Director for Europe at the National Security Council Ambassador Michael Carpenter discussed reviving the F-35 deals with their Turkish counterparts. As part of the proposal, Turkey was asked to transfer the S-400s to the United States or to the US-controlled section of İncirlik Air Base.
While both sides are reportedly eager to reach a positive outcome, Turkey has not been receptive to the proposal. Pentagon spokesman Javan Rasnake emphasized that the US position on Turkey’s purchase of the S-400 system remains unchanged.
Turkey’s participation in the F-35 program is expected to be a key topic of discussion during the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Despite ongoing tensions between the US and Turkey, there is a sense in Washington that the US is willing to lift sanctions once the S-400 issue is resolved and Turkey is reintegrated into the F-35 program.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan recently stated that the F-35 deal was halted due to the American Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). He expressed his hope for finding a creative solution to the issue, emphasizing that both sides agree that it has become a significant obstacle in bilateral relations.