Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed strong displeasure over the United States' signalling of a possible sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, raising concerns about regional security and Israel's qualitative military edge. The development marks a significant shift in US-Turkey relations and has sparked diplomatic tensions between Washington and Jerusalem.
Background of the dispute
The US decision to consider selling F-35 Lightning II jets to Turkey comes after Ankara was removed from the F-35 program in 2019 following its acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile defense system. The US had previously argued that the S-400 could compromise the stealth capabilities of the F-35. However, recent signals from the Biden administration indicate a potential rapprochement with Turkey, including the possible sale of F-16s and now F-35s.
According to reports, the US has been in discussions with Turkey about returning to the F-35 program, contingent on Ankara resolving the S-400 issue. Turkey has reportedly offered to store the S-400s under international supervision, but no final agreement has been reached.
Israel's concerns
Netanyahu has publicly criticized the move, stating that it could undermine Israel's security. Israel has long relied on its qualitative military edge in the region, which includes access to advanced US weaponry like the F-35. The Israeli Air Force operates a fleet of F-35I Adir jets, which are customized versions of the F-35. Any sale to Turkey, a country with which Israel has had strained relations, could potentially erode that advantage.
“Israel views with utmost gravity any US sale of advanced weapons to countries that may pose a threat to our security,” Netanyahu said in a statement. He added that he had raised the issue directly with US officials.
US-Turkey relations
The potential F-35 sale is part of a broader thaw in US-Turkey relations. Turkey, a NATO member, has been a key ally but has also pursued an independent foreign policy, including military operations in Syria and Libya. The US has sought to balance its strategic interests with Turkey while maintaining Israel's security edge.
According to a US official, the Biden administration is exploring ways to bring Turkey back into the F-35 program as a way to strengthen NATO and reduce Turkey's reliance on Russian weapons. However, any sale would require congressional approval, where pro-Israel sentiment is strong.
Regional implications
Experts warn that an F-35 sale to Turkey could reshape the military balance in the Middle East. Turkey has been increasingly assertive in its regional policy, including in the Eastern Mediterranean and Syria. The F-35's advanced stealth and networking capabilities could significantly enhance Turkey's air power.
“Turkey already has a large and capable air force. Adding F-35s would make it one of the most formidable in the region, potentially challenging Israeli air superiority,” said a defense analyst.
What happens next?
The issue is likely to be a topic of discussion during Netanyahu's upcoming visit to Washington. Israeli officials have reportedly been lobbying US lawmakers to block any potential sale. Meanwhile, Turkey has expressed interest in purchasing 40 F-35s, with deliveries potentially starting in the late 2020s.
The US has not made a final decision, and the process could take months or years. However, the mere signalling of a possible sale has already strained US-Israel relations, which have been under pressure over issues like the Iran nuclear deal.
