Despite developing its own Kaan fighter jet and ordering the first 20 aircraft, Türkiye continues to pursue a return to the U.S. F-35 program after being removed over its acquisition of russia's S-400 air defense system.
Efforts in this direction have intensified over the past two years. During this time, the media reported on several possible compromise scenarios under which Ankara and Washington could resolve the issue of the S-400 systems in a way acceptable to both sides. Among them was a scenario particularly unfavorable for Ukraine, in which Türkiye would return the systems to russia.
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According to the report, russia could be interested in reacquiring the S-400 systems, although there are currently no indications that negotiations are underway to move forward with such a scenario. It is also unclear whether the United States would agree to this.
U.S. President Donald Trump recently stated that he intends to make Türkiye "very happy" during the upcoming summit in Ankara scheduled for July 7–8. This may be a hint at progress toward Türkiye's return to the F-35 program and the resumption of the aircraft procurement process. However, the explanation may be simpler: perhaps the United States simply wants to approve the sale of engines for the Kaan fighter jets to Türkiye.
According to Euractiv, the issue of F-35 fighter jets for Türkiye has not yet been resolved. Most likely, the final decision will depend on whether Ankara agrees to sell its S-400 air defense systems to a third country, with South Korea being considered as one of the options.
One possible explanation is that this country could act as a relatively neutral intermediary, particularly given its strained relations with russia over its ties with North Korea.
At the same time, the transfer of the S-400 air defense system to South Korea could lead to an escalation in tensions with North Korea. Another important question is whether South Korea would have any interest in such a deal and what Washington and Ankara could offer in return.
The transfer of the S-400 air defense system may be accompanied by challenges such as training operators and technical personnel. Furthermore, it remains unclear what missile inventory Türkiye currently has, assuming South Korea gains full control over the system. However, the more likely scenario is that the system would simply be transferred there for storage.
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