Turkey Could 'Transfer' S-400 to U.S. for Possible Path Into F-35 Program

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Posted on 09/24/2024 2:50:58 PM PDT by fruser1

Ankara has remained firm in recent years it would keep the Russian-made S-400 "Triumf" air-defense system, even though it meant it was expelled from the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program. Washington and NATO leaders argued the platforms weren't compatible and Turkey's adoption of both would compromise security of the stealth fighter.

Greek-based media reported the U.S. has "submitted a detailed proposal" that could resolve the matter. It would "formally allow" Turkey to keep the S-400, but essentially transfer the control to the United States. The system would be stored at the Incirlik Air Base.

Employing a Russian-made system when the most likely attack would come from Russia seemed like a bad decision, and it forced Turkey out of the F-35 program. In addition to the Turkish Air Force no longer on track to receive the fifth-generation stealth fighter, it also was a costly misstep for the NATO partner.

Turkey had been a part of the supply chain for the F-35 and reportedly paid $1.25 billion to participate. Producing parts was expected to have generated $9 billion in revenue for Ankara, while six F-35 aircraft produced for Turkey were not delivered.

What is notable is the system hadn't been made operational as of last December when Turkish Defense Minister told reporters the S-400 system would only be utilized when needed. It remains unclear exactly what that means, as it is impossible to plan for a surprise attack where the S-400 would be needed!

It remains unclear if Turkey will move forward with the proposal, but such a move probably won't win the approval of the Kremlin, as the U.S. would no doubt have access to the S-400, and perhaps even determine how to counter it.

Yet there is likely little Moscow could do in retaliation.

(Excerpt) Read more at msn.com ...

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1 posted on 09/24/2024 2:50:58 PM PDT by fruser1

To: fruser1

2 posted on 09/24/2024 2:52:09 PM PDT by VTenigma (Conspiracy theory is the new "spoiler alert")

To: fruser1

3 posted on 09/24/2024 3:00:02 PM PDT by dragnet2 (Diversion and evasion are tools of deceit)

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