March 21, 2025 – Fox News reports that former President Donald Trump is considering a major shift in U.S.-Turkey relations following a Sunday phone call with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
The proposed deal could see sanctions lifted and Turkey rejoining the F-35 program, with sales of the advanced jets back on the table. Additionally, Turkey’s F-16 fleet would be modernized, with 40 new jets and upgrade kits for 79 existing aircraft—already approved by Congress in a $23 billion package—moving forward.
The agreement hinges on Turkey surrendering its two Russian S-400 air defense systems, purchased in 2017 for $2.5 billion. Options include partial disassembly or relocation to a U.S.-controlled base in Turkey. Turkey’s acquisition of the S-400s previously led to its expulsion from the F-35 program over espionage fears tied to Russian technology operating near U.S. systems.
The Turkish embassy, referencing a readout from Erdogan’s office, stated that the president urged Trump to end CAATSA sanctions, finalize the F-16 deal, and restore Turkey’s role in the F-35 program to boost defense cooperation. Erdogan is expected to visit the White House in the coming weeks to cement these ties.