The NATO Summit in Spain marked a critical turning point for Türkiye, not only regarding its stance on Finland and Sweden’s NATO membership but also in its bilateral relations with the United States. One of the key issues discussed at the summit was Türkiye’s long-standing request for F-16 fighter jets and modernization kits.

During the meeting between President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and US President Joe Biden, the issue was given special attention. Biden underlined the necessity of delivering the F-16s to Türkiye, while US Deputy Secretary of Defense Celeste Wallander and Republican Senator Lindsey Graham also publicly expressed their support for the sale.

Following Türkiye’s removal from the F-35 program, the country turned to F-16s as a temporary solution until the National Combat Aircraft (MMU) enters service. Türkiye formally requested 40 F-16 Block 70 aircraft as well as 80 modernization kits to upgrade its existing fleet. The US State Department, in a letter sent to the Senate, stated that this sale would be “in line with American interests.”

Despite this progress, anti-Türkiye groups launched a social media campaign arguing that F-16s should not be sold to Türkiye. However, with the support voiced by Biden and key members of Congress, Türkiye’s request appears to be moving forward.

This development is regarded as a significant step in Türkiye’s efforts to modernize its air power. Until the MMU becomes operational, the F-16 Block 70s are expected to play a vital role in strengthening the Turkish Air Force.