A report from the US Congressional Research Service has raised hopes in Ankara for a possible return to the F-35 program.

According to Turkish media, the report suggests that the US Congress could reconsider its decision to block the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey. The report also touches on the United Arab Emirates, another country excluded from the program due to its relationship with China. This development comes as Turkey continues to navigate strained relations with the US over its 2019 purchase of the Russian S-400 missile defense system. Ankara was placed under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) regime by the US Congress. To lift the CAATSA sanctions, a new decision must be made by the US Congress, and the law must be amended.

Turkey was one of the original nine partner countries in the F-35 program, with plans for the delivery of 100 jets to the Turkish Air Force. The Congressional report highlights that more than 900 components, including crucial parts like the fuselage and landing gear, were produced in Turkey.

Meanwhile,Greece is proceeding with a €3.5 billion deal to acquire 20 F-35 fighter jets, cementing its long-term defense strategy despite significant financial and logistical challenges.

The procurement, seen as a technological leap for the Hellenic Air Force, is part of Athens’ broader plan to modernize its aerial capabilities. The deal comes as neighboring Turkey moves forward with its own fighter jet upgrades, including the modernization of its F-16 fleet to the advanced Viper configuration.

Greek officials have long prioritized staying ahead of Turkey in air power, particularly after tensions over the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean. While the US approved both Greece’s F-35 request and Turkey’s F-16 upgrades, Athens is now focused on integrating the next-generation stealth fighters into its fleet.

The total estimated cost of the program, including infrastructure upgrades and weapons systems, is expected to reach €4.6 billion.

The first batch of Hellenic Air Force pilots is set to travel to the US for F-35 training between 2027 and 2028, with plans to return with the first batch of F-35s by 2029-2030. Greece has requested a total of 40 F-35s, with an initial order for 20, followed by an additional 20.

Source: Ekathimerini.com