Turkey Maintains S-400 Fleet While Negotiating F-35 Program Return With United States

Dec 13, 2025 12:25 am CST

Turkey's defense ministry confirmed no changes to its Russian S-400 air defense systems while diplomatic discussions continue with the United States regarding sanctions relief and potential return to the F-35 fighter jet program. The NATO allies have been at odds since 2020 when Washington removed Ankara from the program citing security concerns, which Turkey disputes. Both nations seek resolution during Trump's second term despite U.S. insistence that Turkey cannot possess S-400 systems while participating in the F-35 program.