Turkiye has expressed its readiness to purchase $20 billion worth of ammunition, electronics, and military spare parts from the United States—if Washington agrees to lift the sanctions imposed over its previous defense deal with Russia.
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan shared the proposal during an interview with CNN, revealing that the Turkish government is looking to secure a large defense package under US President Donald Trump’s administration. The package, he said, would include a broad range of equipment and supplies intended to support the country’s military readiness and operations.
The potential deal hinges on the removal of US sanctions that were enforced in 2019 after Turkiye acquired the Russian S-400 missile defense system. The sanctions also led to Turkiye’s removal from the US-led F-35 fighter jet program. Ankara is now hoping for a reset, not only in terms of defense procurement but also in reviving its position in major Western military projects.
Turkiye is specifically seeking the return of six F-35 jets that were originally manufactured for its air force before the sanctions took effect. According to Fidan, legal and diplomatic discussions are already underway, and talks began during the Biden administration. Turkish officials are working closely with legal teams to find a pathway to resolve the issue without further disruption to defense cooperation.
This development comes as Turkiye looks to restore its ties with Washington after years of friction. The strategic importance of the country, combined with shifting dynamics in the region, has added weight to Ankara’s attempt to repair and rebuild its defense relationships with the US and NATO allies.
While there is no official response from Washington yet, the move signals a willingness on Turkiye’s part to align more closely with the US defense industry—if both sides can come to terms over past disagreements.