Defense & Military
Turkey and U.S. Resume Talks on F-35 Program Return in 2025
Diplomatic talks between Turkey and the U.S. target Turkey’s reintegration into the F-35 program amid S-400 compliance and defense industry considerations.
This article summarizes reporting by Reuters and public remarks by U.S. officials.
Diplomatic channels between Washington and Ankara have reopened with significant momentum, as U.S. Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack confirmed on December 10, 2025, that discussions regarding Turkey’s return to the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program are officially underway. According to reporting by Reuters, the envoy expressed optimism that a resolution to the years-long impasse could be reached within the next four to six months.
The potential reintegration of Turkey into the fifth-generation fighter program marks a pivotal shift in U.S.-Turkey defense relations. Turkey was expelled from the consortium in 2019 following its acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile defense system, a move that triggered U.S. sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). However, a renewed atmosphere of cooperation, reportedly driven by the relationship between President Donald Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, appears to be accelerating a solution.
While significant legal and technical hurdles remain, the timeline suggested by Ambassador Barrack indicates that negotiators are moving past the initial stalemate toward actionable compromises.
The confirmation of these talks comes directly from Ambassador Barrack, who also serves as the U.S. Special Envoy for Syria. In statements cited by Reuters and shared on social media, Barrack highlighted the “positive relationship” between the two nations’ leadership as a catalyst for the current progress. The discussions are not merely exploratory; they are focused on specific mechanisms to satisfy U.S. security requirements while allowing Turkey to modernize its air force.
According to the provided reports, the timeline for a potential deal is aggressive. Barrack indicated that a “breakthrough” regarding the S-400 issue, the primary obstacle to F-35 reintegration, could occur within months. This aligns with comments from Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who recently expressed belief that sanctions could be lifted “very soon.”
“Our hope is that these talks will yield a breakthrough in the coming months that meets both the security requirements of the United States and Türkiye.”
U.S. Ambassador Tom Barrack, via Reuters
The core friction point remains the Russian-made S-400 air defense system. The United States has long maintained that the S-400’s advanced radar systems could compromise the stealth capabilities of the F-35 if the two platforms were operated in proximity. Consequently, U.S. law strictly prohibits Turkey from returning to the program while it possesses the Russian hardware. While the U.S. stance on “non-possession” remains legally binding, reporting from outlets such as Al-Monitor and Bloomberg suggests that diplomats are exploring “creative resolutions” to satisfy CAATSA requirements without forcing Ankara into a humiliating public reversal.
Negotiations reportedly focus on verification mechanisms that would render the S-400s permanently non-operational. Potential strategies discussed in defense circles include:
Ambassador Barrack reiterated the necessity of compliance, stating that Turkey must no longer operate or possess the system to rejoin the program. However, the willingness to discuss these terms signals a departure from the previous “all-or-nothing” diplomatic stance.
Turkey’s potential return to the F-35 program involves substantial financial and industrial stakes. Prior to its expulsion, Turkey was a Level 3 partner in the Joint Strike Fighter consortium, with plans to purchase 100 F-35A jets. The country had already invested approximately $1.4 billion into the program, funds that were effectively frozen when deliveries were halted.
According to analysis by Defense Security Asia, these “sunk costs” are a key bargaining chip. Ankara is seeking either the delivery of the jets or a credit toward future defense purchases. Furthermore, the industrial supply chain may be easier to restart than previously thought.
p>Reports indicate that Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) has retained specialized F-35 production equipment, including Special Tooling and Test Equipment, at its facilities in Ankara. Before 2019, Turkish manufacturers produced over 900 distinct parts for the aircraft, ranging from center fuselages to landing gear components. While the U.S. Joint Program Office moved to shift this supply chain to U.S. contractors like Northrop Grumman, the physical capacity for Turkish production reportedly remains largely intact.
The Geopolitical Necessity of Reintegration
We view this development as a strategic correction driven by the shifting security architecture of NATO’s southern flank. While the S-400 dispute was technically centered on radar interoperability, the geopolitical reality of 2025 demands a modernized Turkish military.
With the ongoing war in Ukraine and instability in the Middle East, the U.S. likely views a capability gap in the Turkish Air Force as a liability for the alliance. Furthermore, Ankara is acutely aware of the shifting regional balance. With Greece moving forward with its own F-35 acquisition and Israel already operating the advanced “Adir” variant, Turkey faces the prospect of losing air superiority in its immediate neighborhood. This pressure creates a powerful incentive for Erdoğan to accept a compromise on the S-400s that he might have previously rejected. When could Turkey receive F-35 jets?
While talks are progressing, no delivery date is set. Ambassador Barrack suggested a diplomatic resolution could be reached in 4 to 6 months. Actual delivery of aircraft would likely take significantly longer due to production backlogs.
What happens to the S-400 system?
To comply with U.S. law (CAATSA), Turkey must not “possess or operate” the system. Negotiators are discussing placing the system in non-operational status, potentially under U.S. or international monitoring.
How much money has Turkey already spent on the F-35?
Turkey invested approximately $1.4 billion for jets that were never delivered. The current negotiations likely include discussions on how to credit or utilize these funds.
Turkey and U.S. Eye F-35 Return Within Months Amid Renewed Talks
The Path to a Diplomatic Breakthrough
Resolving the S-400 Impasse
“Creative Resolutions” Under Consideration
Industrial and Financial Implications
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Lockheed Martin
Defense & Military
Bangladesh Signs Letter of Intent to Acquire Eurofighter Typhoon Jets
Bangladesh initiates talks with Leonardo to purchase Eurofighter Typhoon jets, advancing its Forces Goal 2030 defense modernization plan.
This article summarizes reporting by Reuters.
The Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) has formally initiated negotiations to acquire Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets, marking a significant potential pivot in the nation’s defense procurement strategy. According to reporting by Reuters, representatives from Bangladesh signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with the Italian defense firm Leonardo S.p.A. on December 9, 2025.
This agreement represents a major step in the BAF’s long-standing “Forces Goal 2030” modernization roadmap. Historically reliant on Chinese and Russian military hardware, Dhaka’s move toward advanced Western aerospace technology suggests a desire to diversify its defense partnerships and enhance its aerial sovereignty capabilities. The signing ceremony reportedly included Bangladesh’s Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan and Italian Ambassador Antonio Alessandro.
While the LOI is a preliminary agreement rather than a binding contract, it establishes the framework for negotiations regarding the procurement of the aircraft. If finalized, this deal would introduce “4.5 generation” capabilities to the BAF fleet, significantly altering the air power balance in the region.
The export campaign for the Eurofighter Typhoon is managed by a consortium of European partners, with specific nations leading sales efforts in different regions. In this instance, Leonardo S.p.A. is spearheading the campaign on behalf of the Eurofighter consortium, which also includes Airbus and BAE Systems. Reports indicate that if the deal proceeds, the aircraft would likely be assembled at Leonardo’s facilities in Turin, Italy.
Although the specific number of aircraft was not detailed in the initial announcement, defense analysts and previous budget requests suggest a requirement for between 10 and 16 jets. The financial scope of the program is substantial; prior allocations for the “Multi-Role Combat Aircraft” (MRCA) program were estimated at approximately $3 billion (approx. 25,200 crore Taka). However, the final cost will depend heavily on the associated weapons packages, training, and long-term support services negotiated in the final contract.
The acquisition of Eurofighter Typhoons would represent a generational leap for the BAF, which currently operates a fleet primarily composed of Chinese Chengdu F-7s and Russian MiG-29s. Industry experts suggest that Bangladesh is targeting the Tranche 4 standard, the most advanced version of the Typhoon currently in production.
Key technical advantages of this variant include: “This platform significantly outperforms the BAF’s current fleet… offering ‘4.5 generation’ capabilities.”
, Defense Research Report
The potential purchase aligns with “Forces Goal 2030,” a modernization initiative launched in 2009 to transform the Bangladesh military into a “three-dimensional” force capable of defending both airspace and maritime economic zones. The BAF has faced urgency in replacing its aging F-7 fleet, which is based on the 1950s-era MiG-21 airframe and has suffered from obsolescence issues.
Reports suggest the BAF may be pursuing a “High-Low” mix strategy. This would involve acquiring a smaller number of high-end Western fighters like the Typhoon for air dominance, potentially supplemented by more affordable platforms such as the Chinese Chengdu J-10CE to provide bulk numbers. However, the Eurofighter commitment signals a clear intent to reduce total reliance on Beijing, which currently supplies approximately 70% of Bangladesh’s arms.
We view this Letter of Intent as a significant geopolitical maneuver by Dhaka. By engaging with Leonardo and the Eurofighter consortium, Bangladesh is strengthening ties with Europe and NATO-aligned nations. This diversification strategy mitigates the risks associated with single-source dependency on Chinese military technology.
Regionally, the move is likely to be viewed with mixed emotions in New Delhi. While India may be cautious about a neighbor acquiring such advanced air superiority capabilities, it may simultaneously welcome Dhaka’s drift away from Beijing’s sphere of influence. A Bangladesh armed with Western technology is less integrated into the Chinese military ecosystem, potentially offering new avenues for defense cooperation with India and other Western-aligned powers in the Indo-Pacific.
What is a Letter of Intent (LOI)? Why is Leonardo leading the deal instead of the UK or Germany? When would the aircraft be delivered?
Bangladesh Signals Strategic Shift with Eurofighter Typhoon Letter of Intent
Details of the Proposed Acquisition
Projected Fleet Size and Investment
Technical Leap for the Bangladesh Air Force
Strategic Context: Forces Goal 2030
AirPro News Analysis
Geopolitical Implications of a Western Pivot
Frequently Asked Questions
An LOI is a non-binding document that outlines the preliminary understanding between parties who intend to formalize a legally binding agreement. It signals serious intent to purchase but does not guarantee the final sale.
The Eurofighter consortium divides export campaigns among its partner nations (UK, Germany, Italy, Spain). Italy, through Leonardo, leads campaigns in specific regions. This structure can sometimes help bypass stricter export controls that might exist in other partner nations.
If a final contract is signed, deliveries typically commence 3 to 5 years later, depending on production slots and customization requirements.Sources
Photo Credit: Leonardo
Defense & Military
Robinson R66 Surpasses 2300 Flight Hours in US Military Training
Robinson Helicopter’s R66 turbine helicopter fleet logged over 2,300 flight hours across U.S. Army and Navy training programs, demonstrating reliability for military use.
This article is based on an official press release from Robinson Helicopter Company.
Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC) has announced a significant operational milestone for its R66 turbine Helicopters fleet, logging over 2,300 flight hours in just over seven months of military training operations. According to the company’s official statement, this achievement underscores the platform’s reliability as it positions itself for the U.S. Army’s upcoming “Flight School Next” modernization program.
The milestone, achieved between May and December 2025, involves a fleet of six aircraft operating across two distinct pilot programs for the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy. By demonstrating high operational availability and low maintenance requirements, Robinson aims to prove that its light turbine helicopter, specifically the militarized “TH-66 Sage” variant, can handle the rigorous tempo of initial military flight training.
The 2,300 flight hours were accumulated through active contracts designed to test the efficacy of commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) aircraft in military syllabi. According to the press release, the flight hours were generated in two primary locations:
Robinson emphasizes that the fleet maintained “sustained operational availability” with an “extremely low rate of unscheduled maintenance” throughout this period. This data is critical for the manufacturer, as military customers often scrutinize whether light civilian helicopters can endure the repetitive stress of student training without frequent downtime.
The aircraft driving these numbers is the TH-66 “Sage,” a variant of the standard R66 Turbine specifically configured for military instruction. Powered by a Rolls-Royce RR300 turbine engine, the helicopter is designed to offer a cost-effective alternative to heavier, twin-engine trainers currently in use.
According to Robinson’s specifications, the TH-66 features a modern glass cockpit equipped with Garmin G500H TXi displays and GTN750 navigators. This Avionics suite is intended to prepare student pilots for the digital environments found in advanced military combat aircraft. The manufacturer also highlights specific modifications for the training environment, including an “instructor-friendly” cyclic design and a standard 4K cockpit camera for post-flight debriefing.
“American-Made R66 Demonstrates Critical Operational Reliability, Establishing Readiness for Army’s Flight School Next Program.”
, Robinson Helicopter Company Press Release
A key component of Robinson’s pitch is the domestic origin of the aircraft. The company states that over 85% of the R66’s parts are manufactured at its facility in Torrance, California, a factor likely intended to appeal to U.S. military procurement requirements regarding supply chain security. While the current flight hours were generated under Contracts awarded to “Team CTI” (a partnership involving Crew Training International), the broader goal for Robinson is the U.S. Army’s “Flight School Next” (FSN) initiative. This massive program seeks to overhaul the Army’s Initial Entry Rotary Wing (IERW) training system, currently reliant on the Airbus UH-72 Lakota.
To compete for the future FSN contract, Robinson has aligned itself with M1 Support Services to form “Team M1.” This Partnerships combines Robinson’s manufacturing capabilities with M1’s experience in aviation logistics and maintenance. The 2,300-hour milestone serves as a direct validation of the team’s proposal, offering hard data to support claims of reliability and cost-efficiency.
The data released by Robinson highlights a shifting philosophy in military pilot training: the move toward “outsourcing” initial skills to lower-cost commercial platforms. Historically, the U.S. Army has utilized the twin-engine UH-72 Lakota for initial training. While capable, the Lakota is significantly more expensive to operate per hour than a single-engine light turbine like the R66 or its competitor, the Bell 505.
By proving that the R66 can sustain high-tempo operations (averaging nearly 400 hours per airframe in seven months), Robinson is directly challenging the necessity of using complex, twin-engine aircraft for ab initio training. If the Army prioritizes cost savings and throughput in its “Flight School Next” decision, the economic argument for a single-engine trainer becomes compelling. However, Robinson faces stiff competition from established defense giants, including Boeing (offering the Leonardo TH-73) and Bell Textron, both of whom have deep legacies in military training.
Ultimately, this milestone moves the R66 from a “paper candidate” to a proven entity in the military training space, forcing competitors to address the economic efficiency of their own offerings.
Robinson R66 Fleet Clears 2,300 Flight Hours in Military Training Push
Operational Context: The “Proof of Concept”
The Aircraft: Inside the TH-66 Sage
Strategic Implications: Flight School Next
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: Robinson
Defense & Military
U.S. Navy Recovers Two Aircraft from South China Sea Floor
The U.S. Navy recovered an F/A-18F Super Hornet and MH-60R Seahawk from 400 feet underwater following October 2025 mishaps near USS Nimitz.
This article is based on an official press release from the U.S. 7th Fleet.
The U.S. Navy has successfully recovered two Military-Aircraft lost at sea during routine operations in the South China Sea. According to an official statement from the U.S. 7th Fleet, the recovery operation for an F/A-18F Super Hornet and an MH-60R Seahawk was completed on December 5, 2025. Both airframes were retrieved from a depth of approximately 400 feet.
The recovery effort, which concluded more than a month after the initial incidents, involved a complex coordination of salvage teams, diving experts, and contracted commercial vessels. Navy officials confirmed that the operation was conducted to prevent the loss of sensitive technology and to facilitate the ongoing Investigation into the cause of the crashes.
The recovery mission stems from two separate mishaps that occurred on October 26, 2025, aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN-68). The incidents took place within approximately 30 minutes of one another while the carrier was conducting routine flight operations in the contested waters of the South China Sea.
According to fleet records and deployment data, the aircraft involved were:
Despite the loss of the airframes, the U.S. 7th Fleet emphasized that all personnel survived. The three crew members of the Helicopters were rescued immediately following their crash. Less than an hour later, when the Super Hornet went down, both aviators ejected safely and were subsequently recovered.
“The U.S. Navy successfully recovered [the aircraft]… from the ocean floor Dec. 5,” the 7th Fleet confirmed in their official release.
The salvage mission was led by Commander, Task Force (CTF) 73, in coordination with the Supervisor of Salvage and Diving (SUPSALV). Due to the depth of the water, approximately 400 feet, and the specific requirements of the recovery, the Navy employed a mix of military and commercial assets.
The primary lifting operation was conducted by a contracted “Vessel of Opportunity,” a commercial ship outfitted specifically for this mission. This vessel utilized a government-owned, contractor-operated deep-ocean salvage system, which included a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to rig the aircraft for lifting. The USNS Salvor (T-ARS 52), a Safeguard-class salvage ship, provided additional on-scene support.
The recovered aircraft will be transported to a designated facility for inspection. The official cause of the incidents remains under investigation. While early public speculation and media reports suggested potential fuel contamination issues, Navy officials have stated there is currently no confirmed evidence of foul play, and the investigation will determine the precise factors involved. The urgency and scale of this recovery operation highlight the strategic sensitivity of the South China Sea. While the recovery of airframes is standard procedure for mishap investigations, the location adds a layer of geopolitical complexity. The F/A-18F and MH-60R contain classified Avionics, Radar-Systems, and communications equipment that the United States prioritizes protecting from foreign exploitation.
Operating in international waters heavily patrolled by the People’s Republic of China, the U.S. Navy likely prioritized a swift recovery to ensure no sensitive material remained on the ocean floor. This operation mirrors similar high-priority salvage missions, such as the 2022 recovery of an F-35C in the same region, underscoring the Navy’s capability to protect its technological assets even in contested maritime environments.
Were there any casualties in the crashes? Why did the Navy recover the aircraft? What caused the crashes?
U.S. Navy Recovers Two Aircraft from South China Sea Floor Following October Mishaps
Incident Overview and Timeline
Salvage Operation Details
AirPro News Analysis: Strategic Implications
Frequently Asked Questions
No. All crew members involved in both the MH-60R and F/A-18F crashes were rescued safely on the day of the incident, October 26, 2025.
Recovery is standard procedure to determine the cause of the mishap and to prevent sensitive technology from falling into the hands of foreign adversaries, particularly in contested waters like the South China Sea.
The official cause is currently under investigation. While the proximity of the two crashes (within 30 minutes of each other) raised questions, the Navy has not released a final determination.
Sources
Photo Credit: Petty Officer 2nd Class Carson Croom
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