Experts believe that Turkey must resolve the issue of the S-400 anti-aircraft system if it wants to re-enter the F-35 program.

Türkiye could sell the S-400 to other countries interested in its technology

The West believes that Turkey could return to the F-35 program if it manages to resolve the conflicts related to the acquisition of the Russian S-400 missiles. To do so, it is believed that Turkey would need to completely withdraw the S-400 system from its territory, in addition to ensuring its commitment to NATO defense regulations.

Several countries are interested in acquiring S-400 systems from Turkey. These include Qatar, Pakistan and Azerbaijan, due to their military ties with Turkey. Belarus and Algeria, which are interested in Russian defence technology, may also find it an attractive option for upgrading their air defence systems.

Despite this possible sale, concerns about the S-400 appear to have subsided. Turkey is following a similar path to the United Arab Emirates, whose F-35 deal was blocked by the Biden administration due to Huawei’s involvement in the development of its 5G network.

Huawei’s 5G network expands collaboration between Türkiye and China

A Russian S-400 anti-aircraft missile system. Photographer: Alexander Nemenov/AFP/Getty Images

Turkey is moving forward with the deployment of its 5G network in collaboration with Huawei. The agreement involves the installation of base stations, core networks and specialized software, which will boost mobile internet speeds and device connectivity.

The development of this network seeks to boost strategic areas such as smart cities and the Internet of Things (IoT). Huawei will contribute its advanced technology and experience in 5G networks, considered among the most sophisticated, including Massive MIMO and beamforming technology.

However, Huawei’s involvement has raised security concerns. Critics, such as Mac Thornberry of the US Armed Services Committee, see Huawei’s expansion as a threat that could compromise international telecommunications networks.

S-400 keeps Turkey out of US F-35 program

Despite international expectations, Turkey remains committed to using the S-400 system. In an article published in February 2024, Selcan Hacaoglu stressed that Ankara has shown no signs of budging on this issue, which has increased tensions with Washington.

The F-35 Lightning II’s capabilities are designed to enhance the operational potential of the Hellenic Air Force, with its stealth, sensor fusion and network-centric warfare capabilities ensuring Greece improves its defensive capabilities and strengthens its deterrence posture. Source: Konstantin L/Shutterstock

Turkey insists on the strategic importance of the S-400 for its national defence, maintaining its operational status and continuing its maintenance. Turkish authorities say the system is an essential pillar for protecting its territory.

Turkey’s decision to retain the S-400s appears to confirm its disengagement from the F-35 program, as the United States fears that using the Russian system would compromise the security of the American fighter’s technology.

Turkish KAAN fighter jet emerging as F-35 replacement

Unable to acquire the F-35, Turkey has stepped up its efforts to develop the KAAN, a domestically-made fifth-generation fighter jet. Temel Kotil, head of Turkish Aerospace Industries, said the KAAN is superior to the F-35 in weapons capability and operational power.

The KAAN can carry up to ten tons of weapons, compared to the F-35’s six tons. It also has two engines that give it greater radar range and operational power.

Kotil revealed that Turkey plans to deliver the first 20 KAAN aircraft to its air force in 2028, even if it were to rejoin the F-35 program. This reflects Turkey’s bid to reduce its dependence on foreign military technology.

Türkiye opts for military self-sufficiency with KAAN

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Turkey’s stance with the KAAN reflects its approach to self-sufficiency in military technology. By developing its own fighter aircraft, Turkey seeks to demonstrate its ability to innovate and maintain its national security without relying on other countries.

Kotil stressed that even if Turkey were to be reinstated in the F-35 programme, the aircraft would not be ready before 2028, a period by which the KAAN would already be operational. This fact underlines Turkey’s commitment to technological advancement and to maintaining its independence in the military field.

The development of the KAAN is part of a broader national defence strategy focused on reducing Turkey’s dependence on foreign military products and boosting domestic innovation.