Lawmakers say resolving S-400 concerns could revive defence partnership between Ankara and Washington
ANKARA: US senators have expressed support for Türkiye’s possible return to the F-35 fighter jet programme, saying such a move would strengthen defence cooperation between Ankara and Washington while enhancing NATO’s collective military capabilities.
Speaking on the sidelines of the NATO summit, Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Co-Chair of the Senate NATO Observer Group, said progress on Türkiye’s return would depend on resolving concerns surrounding Ankara’s acquisition of the Russian-made S-400 air defence system, which led to its removal from the programme.
Shaheen said a mutually acceptable solution that eliminates any perceived risk to F-35 technology could allow both sides to move forward. She also noted that the US Congress generally views its relationship with Türkiye positively because of Ankara’s significant role within the NATO alliance.
NATO spending and regional security highlighted
Shaheen said all NATO member states have now achieved the alliance’s benchmark of spending at least two percent of gross domestic product on defence, adding that military expenditures across the alliance increased by 20 percent during 2025.
She also revealed that several NATO allies are considering contributing to mine-clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz as part of broader international efforts to support maritime security and create conditions for diplomatic negotiations aimed at ending tensions with Iran.
Türkiye’s strategic role reaffirmed
Meanwhile, Senator Mike Rounds described Türkiye as an essential NATO ally and an important contributor to the alliance’s collective security.
He said providing Türkiye with advanced military capabilities would strengthen NATO’s overall deterrence, particularly against potential threats in Europe. Rounds also highlighted Türkiye’s previous manufacturing role in the F-35 programme, noting that the country had developed significant industrial expertise before its suspension.
The renewed support from US lawmakers reflects growing momentum for closer defence cooperation, although any decision regarding Türkiye’s return to the F-35 programme will depend on future political and security negotiations between both governments.
