Report: Israel fears Trump will return Turkey to F-35 program, and blue-and-white components will be transferred
Concern in Jerusalem - and in Athens. The Euractiv website reported that ahead of the NATO summit, signs are growing that the Trump administration is considering returning Ankara to the stealth fighter program - from…
Assessment
Israeli defense officials are worried that a potential Trump administration decision to reintegrate Turkey into the F-35 program could result in Israeli-made components being transferred to Ankara. Ankara was removed from the program seven years ago after purchasing Russian air defense systems. The concern is tied to a forthcoming NATO summit where signs of such a move are reportedly growing. The outcome could reshape regional military balances and affect Israel's technology export interests.