The United States has officially approved major defense sales to Türkiye and Greece, marking a significant step in regional security dynamics. Under the agreement, Türkiye will receive 40 new F-16 fighter jets along with modernization kits for 79 of its existing aircraft. Meanwhile, Greece will acquire 40 F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters and related equipment. The U.S. Department of State notified Congress of the decision, making the approvals formal.

The timing of the decision coincides with Türkiye’s ratification of Sweden’s NATO membership, a move widely seen as strategically linked. The sale is interpreted as part of broader efforts to strengthen NATO’s eastern flank amid Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and to expand alliance cohesion. Türkiye’s long-standing push to modernize its F-16 fleet had been a point of negotiation closely tied to its stance on NATO enlargement.

In Congress, some lawmakers had initially opposed the sale due to concerns over Türkiye’s human rights record. However, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Ben Cardin and senior member Jim Risch confirmed that the objections were ultimately overcome. Cardin noted that while concerns remain, Türkiye’s commitments in this area were taken into account when approving the deal.

Türkiye’s delayed approval of Sweden’s NATO membership was rooted in Ankara’s belief that its security concerns were not being fully addressed. This development mirrors NATO’s accelerated efforts to integrate Sweden and Finland following Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. At present, Sweden’s accession now awaits only Hungary’s ratification.