Ankara: Turkey has now withdrawn its objections to the US refusing to sell F-35 jets after buying the Russian S-400,Turkish Defense Minister Yasir Güler has said. It is indeed believed that America may soon approve the sale of F-35 aircraft to Turkey. However, America has not yet responded to this issue. Turkey signed the S-400 purchase deal with Russia in 2017 despite US objections. Two years later, in 2019, Turkey also received delivery of two S-400 missile systems.
Yasar Güler has said that the Turkish-owned S-400s are operational and can be deployed within 12 hours if properly ordered. Earlier there were reports that turkey has not yet activated the S-300 missile system and is trying to sell it to some other country. It was even feared that the S-400 missile system received by Turkey was rusted and would need to be repaired by Russian technicians to make it operational again.
what is S-400?
The S-400 Triumph is a long-range surface-to-air missile system manufactured by Russian defense contractor Almaz Antey and was officially adopted by the Russian military in 2007. It is designed to intercept and destroy enemy aircraft and missiles and can engage targets up to 400 kilometers away and at an altitude of 30 kilometers.
Why is America worried about S-400 Triumph?
America fears that Turkey may scan its F-35 aircraft with the S-400 radar. This may reveal the stealth capabilities of the American F-35 aircraft. F-35 is America’s most advanced fighter aircraft, which has been made to be sold to many other countries as well. Onc the stealth capabilities of this aircraft are revealed, it could deal a blow to the American defense industry and defense capabilities.
What are the potential risks of Turkey using the S-400 system against NATO aircraft?
Interview with Defense Analyst on Turkey’s F-35 Deal and S-400 Acquisition
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today. With Turkey’s recent withdrawal of objections regarding the U.S. sale of F-35 jets after its acquisition of the Russian S-400 system, can you start by explaining the importance of this advancement?
Defense Analyst: Certainly! This move marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Turkey relations. Turkey originally faced sanctions and was excluded from the F-35 program due to its purchase of the S-400s from Russia, which NATO allies perceived as a security risk. The fact that Turkey has now softened its stance opens the door for renewed military cooperation, but it also raises concerns about the interoperability of NATO systems and potential leakage of sensitive military technology.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of technology, can you elaborate on what the S-400 system is and why it’s a concern for the United States?
Defense Analyst: The S-400 Triumph is a highly advanced long-range surface-to-air missile system developed by the Russian defense contractor Almaz Antey. it can engage targets up to 400 kilometers away, posing a meaningful threat to aircraft, including the F-35. The primary American concern is that Turkey could use the S-400 to gather data on the F-35’s stealth capabilities. If the S-400’s radar measures the F-35’s signature, it could provide critical insights that could undermine its effectiveness and compromise U.S. defense technology.
Time.news Editor: How likely is it that the U.S. will proceed with the sale of F-35 jets to Turkey in light of these developments?
Defense analyst: While there is speculation that the U.S.government may soon approve the sale, it depends heavily on diplomatic negotiations and assurances regarding the use of the S-400. The Biden administration is possibly weighing its options, given both geopolitical ramifications and internal pressure from Congress, which is skeptical about the deal. It’s a delicate balance between maintaining relations with Turkey and protecting national security interests.
Time.news Editor: Turkey’s Defense Minister Yasir Güler mentioned that the S-400s are operational and can be deployed rapidly. Could you discuss the implications of this claim on regional security?
Defense Analyst: Indeed, Güler’s statement indicates that Turkey is positioning itself as a significant military power in the region, capable of deploying advanced air defense systems quickly.This development could alter the strategic balance, especially in Eastern Mediterranean conflicts. Countries in the region may feel compelled to enhance their own military capabilities, leading to an arms race and heightened tension.
Time.news Editor: There have also been reports that Turkey is attempting to sell its S-300 system. What does this suggest about Turkey’s defense strategy?
Defense Analyst: The pursuit of selling the S-300, which is an older system, may signal that Turkey is looking to consolidate and modernize its defense capabilities. Selling off less effective systems while maintaining advanced systems like the S-400 could be part of a broader strategy to improve operational readiness and assert its influence in regional conflicts.
Time.news Editor: what advice would you give to our readers regarding the implications of these developments on global military dynamics?
Defense Analyst: It’s crucial for readers to understand that the interplay of defense alliances can significantly impact global military dynamics. Monitoring these developments is vital for understanding shifts in power structures. additionally, the sale of F-35s to Turkey not only affects regional relationships but also has implications for global arms sales and U.S. defense policy. Being informed about these changes enables citizens to participate in discussions about national security and diplomacy.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your valuable insights into this complex issue. We appreciate your expertise on the matter.
Defense Analyst: Thank you for having me! It’s crucial to keep informing the public about these crucial developments in international defense affairs.