Seven Turkish American advocacy groups have petitioned more than 50 members of the U.S. Congress to approve the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Türkiye. The organizations argue that restoring access to these defense systems is vital for maintaining NATO unity and regional security.
The 1952 NATO anchor and the Bosporus connection
The diplomatic relationship between the United States and Türkiye is rooted in a long history dating back to 1831. As the report notes, Türkiye has served as a formal treaty ally since joining NATO in 1952, a role that has positioned the nation as a critical anchor for the Alliance's southeastern borders. By controlling the strategic Bosporus and Dardanelles straits, Türkiye provides a geographic advantage that is central to Mediterranean and Black Sea security.
Beyond its geography, the groups highlighted in the letter emphasize Türkiye's role as a constructive regional actor. They specifically pointed to Ankara's involvement in stability efforts in Syria and its recent mediation role during the Russia-Ukraine war as evidence of its value to American strategic interests. the advocates argue that maintaining these ties through advanced defense cooperation is essential for long-term stability.
The 2019 F-35 suspension and the Russian S-400 impasse
The current rift in defense cooperation stems from a 2019 decision by the United States to suspend Türkiye from the F-35 fighter jet program. According to the report, this move was a response to Türkiye's purchase of the Russian-made S-400 air defense system. U.S. officials expressed concerns that the presence of the S-400 within the Turkish defense infrastructure could endanger the F-35 jets and would be incompatible with existing NATO systems.
While the U.S. has maintained its stance on the security risks posed by Russian hardware, Türkiye has consistently pushed back. Ankara has repeatedly stated that there is no inherent conflict between utilizing the S-400 and operating American fighter jets, even proposing the creation of a commission to study and resolve the technical and security concerns.
Seven organizations targeting 50 Congressional members
The push for renewed defense sales is being led by a coalition of seven prominent Turkish American organizations. these groups—including the Assembly of Turkish American Associations, the Turkish American Coalition, and the Federation of Turkish American Associations—have formally requested that lawmakers remove "unnecessary sanctions" and obstacles to cooperation. Other signatories include the Turkish American National Steering Committee, MUSIAD USA, the Turkish American Chamber of Commerce of the South, and ASKON USA.
The letter sent to the 50-plus members of Congress frames the sale of F-35s not just as a commercial transaction, but as a strategic investment. The organizations argue that restoring access to U.S. defense systems is a prerequisite for strengthening the bilateral relationship and ensuring that Türkiye remains a capable frontline partner for the United States.
Will a commission resolve the S-400 dispute?
Despite the intense lobbying efforts, several critical questions remain unanswered regarding the future of the F-35 program in Türkiye . it is currently unclear if the U.S. government will accept the proposal for a commission to study the compatibility of the S-400 and the F-35, or if Ankara will be willing to make concessions regarding its Russian defense acquisitions. Additionally, while the report mentions that Donald Trump indicated he would "certainly" consider allowing the sales and removing CAATSA sanctions, the specific timeline and legislative path for such a reversal remain unverified.
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