Bloomberg: Türkiye moves to give back Russian S-400 air defence systems

Türkiye is actively seeking to return the Russian-made S-400 air defence systems purchased nearly a decade ago, in a significant shift aimed at resolving long-standing tensions with the United States and NATO allies. 

This potential reversal of a controversial 2017-2019 deal could clear the path for Türkiye to rejoin the F-35 stealth fighter program and lift US sanctions on its defense industry, Bloomberg reports.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan personally raised the possibility of returning the S-400 systems during a recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Turkmenistan last week. This followed prior discussions between Turkish and Russian officials.

Türkiye is not only seeking to hand back the missiles but also requesting a refund for the billions spent, potentially offset against its Russian oil and natural gas imports.

The Kremlin has denied that any such request was made during the leaders' meeting, while the Turkish presidency and defence ministry declined to comment.

Türkiye acquired the S-400 during a period of strained relations with NATO, particularly after failed attempts to purchase US Patriot systems under the Obama administration and following a 2016 coup attempt against Erdoğan.

The deal led to Türkiye's expulsion from the F-35 program in 2019 and US sanctions under CAATSA in 2020, due to concerns that Russia could gain intelligence on NATO assets.

Türkiye currently possesses but does not operate the S-400 systems. The move comes amid pressure from Washington, including discussions during Erdoğan's September White House meeting with President Donald Trump. Trump's ally and US ambassador to Türkiye, Tom Barrack, indicated earlier this month that resolution could occur within 4-6 months.

Ankara hopes its role as a mediator in the Russia-Ukraine conflict will make Moscow more receptive.

By Jeyhun Aghazada