The future maintenance of the UK’s F-35 fighter jets might be put at risk by Washington’s displeasure with Ankara over its planned purchase of Russian anti-aircraft systems, The Register reported on April 23.
Nato member Turkey builds components for the F-35 and, critically, is the US-designated country for an engine overhaul plant that will serve European F-35 customers.
“Uncle Sam has raised the possibility of sanctions against Turkey for buying Russian anti-aircraft missile systems—putting the UK's supply of overhauled F-35 fighter jet engines at risk,” the journal noted.
It added: “US government official Aaron Wess Mitchell threatened action if the Middle Eastern/ European nation completed its purchase of Russian S-400 anti-aircraft defence systems, according to Flight Global, which reported the assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs as saying during a US Congress session: ‘This is because Turkey is an F-35 customer. Testing F-35s against a Russian-made air defence system inevitably raises fears that vital information on neutralising the F-35 threat would then be handed to the Russians on a plate.’”
The Netherlands, Italy, Denmark and Norway are the other European countries buying the F-35, and they may be similarly affected by a sanctions row between the US and Turkey over the S-400.
Don’t just follow the news—understand it.
The IntelliNews PRO service includes access to reports, exclusive market data, and more news that decision-makers care about. Stay ahead of the market with IntelliNews PRO.
Sign Up NowRelated Articles
Turkish officials say they oppose military action against Iran, back peaceful resolution with Trump
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Ankara opposes any military intervention against Iran and supports a peaceful internal resolution of the country's issues, whilst his Iranian counterpart ... more
Iran's Araghchi arrives in Turkey for talks on US military build-up as Ankara looks to act as mediator
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Istanbul on January 30 for meetings with Turkish officials to discuss regional issues amid what he described as serious challenges posed by US ... more
TPAO and ExxonMobil sign deal for offshore exploration
The Turkish Petroleum Corp. (TPAO) has formalised a strategic partnership with Esso Exploration International, a subsidiary of ExxonMobil, marking a significant escalation in Türkiye’s ambitions ... more