US Ambassador: Talks on Türkiye’s Return to F-35 Program Enter “Most Positive Phase in a Decade”

ANKARA — US Ambassador to Türkiye Tom Barrack said discussions regarding Ankara’s potential return to the F-35 fighter jet program are experiencing “the most positive period in the past 10 years,” signaling a possible diplomatic breakthrough if Türkiye resolves the long-standing S-400 missile system dispute.

Speaking on X and later at a security forum in Abu Dhabi, Barrack confirmed that talks between Ankara and Washington have accelerated and could lead to a “groundbreaking development” in the coming months. His remarks mark the strongest indication yet that the Biden administration and Türkiye are edging closer to a formula addressing US sanctions and Türkiye’s exclusion from the F-35 program.

“The law is clear. For Türkiye to rejoin the F-35 program, the Russian-made S-400 system cannot be operated or possessed,” Barrack said, noting ongoing negotiations focus precisely on this condition.

Four-to-Six Month Window for Resolution

Barrack said he expects the S-400 issue to be resolved within 4–6 months, adding that Türkiye is not currently using the Russian battery but still maintains possession of the missiles, radar and launch components.

Asked directly if Türkiye is moving closer to removing the S-400 system, Barrack responded: “Yes.”

The ambassador credited the improving atmosphere partly to the personal rapport between President Donald Trump and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, describing ties as “stronger than at any time in recent years.”

Background: Why the S-400 Matters

Türkiye was removed from the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program after buying the Russian air-defense platform in 2017. Washington argued that operating S-400 radar alongside F-35 jets risked exposing stealth technology to Moscow.

In 2020, the US imposed CAATSA sanctions on Türkiye’s Defense Industries Presidency (SSB), restricting defense exports and financing.

A White House meeting in September reopened channels, with Trump signaling openness to allowing Türkiye to reenter the program — provided progress is made on the S-400.

Gas and Oil Imports Also in Play

Barrack hinted that easing sanctions and restoring F-35 access may be tied to Ankara reducing reliance on Russian energy imports, a topic Trump raised directly with Erdoğan. Washington believes Türkiye is already shifting energy supply sources.

Potential Role in Gaza Stabilization Force

The ambassador added that the US wants Türkiye to participate in the proposed international stabilization mission in Gaza, arguing that Ankara’s ties with Hamas could be leveraged to ensure disarmament.

However, Barrack expressed doubt that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would agree due to the deep diplomatic rift between Ankara and Tel Aviv.

“If I were advising Netanyahu, I’d say it’s brilliant… but trust is missing,” Barrack said.

Next Months Will Be Decisive

Diplomats in Washington and Ankara privately expect a clearer roadmap by mid-2026, with the F-35 issue tied to:

• S-400 disposal or transfer

• Energy supply diversification

• Broader NATO coordination in Syria and Eastern Mediterranean

• Stability arrangements in Gaza and regional security

A breakthrough could restore Türkiye’s place in one of the world’s most advanced fighter programs — and reshape defense ties across NATO.

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