Pentagon Says Turkish S-400 Air Defenses a Problem for F-35 Sale

by Olawle Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow

The U.S. had previously suspended Turkey from the F-35 program in 2019, citing concerns that the S-400 system could pose a threat to the fighter jets and is incompatible with NATO systems.

Despite this, Türkiye has consistently maintained that there is no conflict between the two systems and has proposed a commission to investigate the matter. They have also argued that they have met all their obligations regarding the F-35s and that their suspension from the program was unjustified.

The US believes that the S-400s pose a risk to NATO systems and, consequently, to the F-35’s security. If the S-400 issue is resolved, the US is willing to welcome Turkey back into the F-35 family. However, the path forward remains contingent on addressing the Russian air defense system concern.

The S-400 system, equipped with sophisticated radar and targeting technology, could potentially compromise the F-35’s stealth capabilities by collecting data on its radar cross-section and electronic signature. This data could then be exploited to undermine the aircraft’s effectiveness, a risk the U.S. is understandably unwilling to take.

In a recent development, the United States has indicated a potential reconsideration of Türkiye participation in the F-35 joint strike fighter program, conditional on the resolution of the ongoing dispute over Turkey’s acquisition of the Russian S-400 air defense system.

The S-400—a Russian masterpiece which Turkey acquired has made the U.S. raised an eyebrow, fearing its compatibility with the F-35A. Imagine a tango between two giants.

John Kirby, spokesperson for the National Security Council, now White House National Security Communications Advisor, reiterated the U.S. stance that Türkiye involvement in the F-35 program is incompatible with their deployment of the Russian S-300 and S-400 missile systems. However, he also suggested that if Turkey can address these concerns, there could be a possibility for them to rejoin the F-35 program.