Lawmakers are urging the Trump administration to stop negotiations with Turkey regarding the acquisition of advanced U.S. fighter jets, specifically the F-35s and F-16s. This pushback is centered on Turkey's continued possession of the Russian-made S-400 air defense system. Congress views this acquisition as a direct threat to the stealth capabilities of U.S. fighter jets and a violation of U.S. law.
A bipartisan group of 20 members of Congress sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, highlighting that proceeding with such a sale without statutory certification would violate U.S. law, jeopardize national security, and strain relations with key allies. Section 1245 of the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) explicitly prohibits the transfer of F-35 aircraft to Turkey until the State and Defense departments certify that Ankara has removed the S-400 system and committed to not purchasing similar Russian systems in the future. Lawmakers stated that no such certification has been provided.
The lawmakers also warned against potential workarounds, such as transferring jets to non-sanctioned Turkish entities, arguing that such actions would defy congressional intent. They emphasized that rewarding Turkey with access to advanced U.S. fighter systems despite its behavior would betray partnerships and embolden Turkish aggression. The group is seeking clarification by October 1 from the administration on whether credible assurances have been received from Turkey regarding the S-400, if certification will be submitted, and if F-35 transfers will be withheld until Congress is notified.
Separately, the Biden administration has expressed support for selling F-16 fighter aircraft to Turkey, including 40 new F-16Vs and upgrade packages for 79 existing F-16s, along with missiles and bombs, totaling an estimated $20 billion. This proposed sale is also subject to congressional review. The Arms Export Control Act (AECA) requires the President to formally notify Congress 15 calendar days before proceeding with arms sales to NATO member states like Turkey if the major defense equipment is valued at $14 million or more, defense articles or services at $50 million or more, or design and construction services at $200 million or more. Higher thresholds apply for these specific types of sales to NATO members ($25 million, $100 million, and $300 million respectively).
