Rubio is adamant about Turkey not getting the F-35

The issue dates back to 2019, when Turkey was removed from the F-35 program after acquiring the S-400. The United States has consistently argued that the Russian air defense system poses an unacceptable security risk to the F-35, as its powerful radar could potentially gather valuable information about the aircraft's stealth characteristics. Although Turkey has never fully activated its S-400 batteries, Washington has maintained that mere possession of the system is enough to trigger restrictions.

The debate resurfaced earlier this year when U.S. Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack suggested that a resolution to the dispute might be near and indicated that the Trump administration would be open to Turkey's eventual return to the F-35 program. His comments fueled optimism in Ankara, where officials have long sought a path back into the multinational fighter project.

Rubio's testimony, however, underscored that no such policy shift has occurred.

“Tom Barrack said Turkey should join the F-35 program,” said Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV). “These comments are inconsistent with law and longstanding policy, and I’m just wondering what your position is as Secretary of State. Can Turkey get F-35s or not?”

Responding to such questions from members of Congress, he emphasized that the issue is governed not simply by executive preference but by legislation, including provisions contained in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). As long as Turkey retains the S-400 system, he explained, the U.S. government lacks the legal authority to approve F-35 sales or restore Turkish participation in the program.

As a result, Ankara faces a strategic choice. If it wishes to regain access to the F-35, it must first dispose of the S-400s. Potential options include returning the systems to Russia, selling them to a third country, or otherwise removing them from Turkish possession. So far, however, Turkey has shown little willingness to take such a step, while continuing to explore ways of preserving both capabilities.

For the moment, the situation remains unchanged. Despite periodic signals of diplomatic progress and suggestions that the dispute could be resolved, Washington's official position is clear: Turkey cannot return to the F-35 program unless the S-400 issue is fully resolved. Until then, hopes of acquiring the advanced stealth fighter remain out of reach.