Media: US proposes S-400 relocation to resolve Türkiye's F-35 standoff

The United States has put forward a detailed proposal to Türkiye regarding its acquisition of the Russian S-400 air defence system, aiming to resolve ongoing tensions and facilitate Türkiye's reintegration into the F-35 fighter jet program.

The proposal reportedly involves transferring the Russian S-400 systems to the US-controlled sector of Incirlik Air Base in southern Türkiye. This arrangement would allow Türkiye to retain the missiles on its territory while effectively transferring their control to the United States, thereby avoiding any appearance of capitulation or international embarrassment for Ankara, Caliber.Az reports, citing an exclusive report by the Greek newspaper Kathimerini.

Sources indicate that the discussions are at a more advanced stage than previously believed. Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, confirmed that high-level US officials, including Celeste Wallander and Michael Carpenter, discussed reviving the F-35 deal with their Turkish counterparts during a visit in July. In exchange for re-entry into the F-35 program, US officials suggested that Türkiye must either hand over the S-400s or place them under US control at Incirlik.

Despite the complexities surrounding the negotiations, both sides appear motivated to reach a resolution that would alleviate a significant issue for Washington and NATO. However, initial Turkish responses to the proposal have not been positive. Discussions are expected to continue on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly this week.

Pentagon spokesperson Javan Rasnake reiterated that the US position on Türkiye's S-400 acquisition has not changed since 2019, and the consequences of the purchase remain enshrined in US legislation. Yet, the proposal to relocate the systems signals that efforts to address the S-400 issue are in active progress, with various options under consideration.

Rubin emphasized that the current climate in US foreign policy could lead to unexpected outcomes. He cautioned that the period leading up to US elections often sees administrations acting without accountability, which could result in hasty decisions regarding foreign relations. He expressed concern that granting Türkiye access to the F-35 program could undermine regional stability and security.

Meanwhile, the Greek government remains vigilant regarding developments. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has communicated his concerns to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, emphasizing the potential risks to Greece and Cyprus should any sanctions on Türkiye be lifted.

Republican Congressman Gus Bilirakis echoed these sentiments, asserting that any weakening of sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) would jeopardize US allies in the Eastern Mediterranean.

By Khagan Isayev