White House Strategic Communications Coordinator John Kirby said that the United States cannot provide fifth-generation F-35 fighter jets to Turkey because Ankara has Russian S-300 and S-400 air defense systems. This was reported by RIA News.
“There is no change in our stance regarding the F-35 program against Turkey, which is incompatible with their use of S-300 and S-400 missiles,” Kirby said.
Before this Kirby statedThe United States is reportedly discussing with Turkey the possibility of returning to the production program of American F-35 fighter jets, but on the condition that Ankara rejects Russian S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems. Kirby emphasized that negotiations are continuing for this reason, and that progress towards the F-35 program can be regained if Turkey can resolve concerns on this issue.
Also the US State Department approved the sale Greece F-35 warplanes and necessary equipment. In total, Athens has requested from Washington up to 40 fifth-generation vehicles (fighter jets, engines, communications equipment, logistics, training and support systems, and spare parts).
Previously reportedTurkey is ready to support Sweden’s NATO membership for the sake of supplying American warplanes.