A new option has emerged for resolving the long-standing dispute between Turkey and the US regarding the S-400 systems purchased by Turkey from Russia.
Modern.az reports that US Congressman Darrell Issa stated that transferring the S-400 complexes to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) could be one of the best options for resolving the issue. According to him, such a step could pave the way for Turkey's return to the US F-35 program.
Issa stated after his visit to Ankara on September 10 that the option of transferring S-400s to the UAE had been discussed previously.
The issue is particularly important for Turkey in terms of returning to the F-35 program. In 2019, the US suspended Turkey's participation in the F-35 program due to Ankara's acquisition of S-400 systems. Washington's main concern is that the S-400 systems could pose a threat to NATO technologies.
US President Donald Trump, in July, raised the possibility of lifting the restrictions imposed on Turkey under CAATSA. However, it is reported that this issue is linked to the rejection of the S-400s.
Ankara, however, is not solely relying on F-35s for the future of its air force. Turkey is currently continuing its activities towards modernizing its F-16 fleet and developing the national combat aircraft project KAAN.
