Turkey Seeks Russia's OK to Resell S-400 Missiles, Eyes Return to F-35 Program

Turkey is reportedly pursuing Russia's approval to transfer its Russian-made S-400 air defense missile system to a third nation, a move seen as a strategic effort to rejoin the U.S. F-35 fighter jet program. Turkish officials have indicated that Ankara formally requested Moscow's permission weeks ago. Previously, President Erdoğan had proposed returning the S-400 systems to Russia, but this did not receive a positive response. Turkey has possessed the S-400 systems since 2019 but has not officially activated them. The U.S. had previously expelled Turkey from the F-35 program and imposed sanctions after the S-400 acquisition, citing concerns that the system could compromise the stealth technology of the F-35. Turkey's attempts to appease Washington by offering to keep the S-400s under U.S. supervision were also rejected. A report by the Turkish newspaper Hürriyet suggested a potential sale to a Persian Gulf country, though this remains unconfirmed. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described the matter as "extremely sensitive" and confirmed ongoing dialogue with Turkey. Without Russia's explicit consent for resale, Turkey cannot proceed with transferring the S-400s. The issue was reportedly discussed during a meeting between Turkish Foreign Minister Fidan and Russian President Putin in June, but Russia has yet to provide a formal response. The U.S. Congress remains hesitant about Turkey's potential re-entry into the F-35 program, even if the S-400s are sold, due to lingering national security and technological concerns.

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This is an extremely sensitive issue. We have been in contact with the Turkish side on this matter, and we will continue to communicate in the future.