President Trump signaled on Tuesday that he is leaning toward allowing Turkey back into the F-35 program and selling the fighter jets to the Turkish air force. The statement came at the top of his meeting with Turkish President Erdoğan in Ankara.
Allowing Turkey to rejoin the program would represent a shift in U.S. policy. Israel fears the move could tilt the regional balance of power and violate commitments to maintain its military edge, as Turkey would be the first country in the region to participate in the F-35 production program after Israel.
If approved, Turkey would become the second country in the region to operate F-35s. Trump had previously proposed selling F-35s to Saudi Arabia outside the program, but no deal has been finalized and no jets delivered.
"Many people think 'why wouldn't we do that'... Turkey has been much more loyal than other countries," Trump said when asked about the sale. He added that Turkey has proven a great ally, suggesting a reconsideration of the long-standing policy.
Critics argue that reintegrating Turkey, which purchased Russian S-400 missile systems, could compromise the F-35's security protocols and undermine NATO cohesion.