In a surprise move, the Biden administration is reportedly on the cusp of restoring Turkey's access to the cutting-edge F-35 stealth fighter jet program, a decision that could have significant implications for regional security and NATO's eastern flank. The move comes after Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reached a deal with the US to resolve a long-standing dispute over Ankara's purchase of Russian S-400 missile defense systems, which had led to Turkey's removal from the F-35 program in 2019. The F-35 is a critical component of NATO's airpower and Turkey's participation in the program had been seen as a key factor in maintaining regional stability. The restoration of Turkey's access to the F-35 program is likely to be met with a mix of reactions from lawmakers and defense experts, who will be watching closely to see how this move affects US national security interests.
President Expected to Announce Restoration of Turkey’s Access to U.S. F-35 Stealth Fighters The New York Times
