Key facts
- A review is underway to assess Turkey's eligibility for F-35 fighter jets.
- Turkey's 2019 purchase of Russian S-400 missile defense systems is the reason for the review.
- U.S. Vice President JD Vance is overseeing the review.
- The process requires certification of compliance with U.S. law.
- Congress will play a role in the final decision.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance announced that a review is currently underway to determine the feasibility of selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey. This assessment comes in the wake of Turkey's 2019 acquisition of Russian S-400 missile defense systems, which has complicated its relationship with NATO and the United States. Vance indicated that the review is being handled by his team and aims to ensure that all necessary certifications are met to comply with American law. The President has reportedly asked for this review to be conducted. Vance stated that the issue largely rests with Congress and ensuring that Türkiye has complied with American law before any transfer of the aircraft can proceed.