Erdogan Ties Sweden's NATO Approval to F-16 Delivery Again
Once more, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey has connected his nation's greenlight for Sweden to join NATO with the United States delivering F-16 fighter jets. After sending the NATO membership application to parliament, Erdogan commented, "I expect the same from you too," his office stated, addressing the US directly.
Previously, Erdogan had indicated that the approval of the US Congress and the Turkish parliament for the F-16s should coincide. On his return from a trip to Qatar, he remarked that the fighter jet deal had been a consideration since September.
Erdogan submitted Sweden's NATO accession protocol to parliament for ratification in late October, where it has stayed within a committee. With his Islamic-conservative governing alliance holding a majority in parliament, it's unlikely parliamentarians will act against the president's wishes.
Turkey is eager to purchase new F-16 jets and modern equipment from the US. The US government supports the updating of Turkey's existing F-16s and the provision of new jets. However, there is resistance from US senators.
In light of Russia's aggression against Ukraine, Sweden applied for NATO membership alongside Finland in May 2022. While Finland was welcomed as the 31st member in early April, Sweden still needs approval from Turkey and Hungary to be accepted.
Additional Insights:
The US has imposed restrictions on Turkey due to its acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile system, which led to a block on Turkey purchasing F-35 fighter jets. Diplomatic efforts, including by US Ambassador Jeff Flake, helped secure Turkey's approval for Sweden's NATO membership, eventually lifting congressional holds on the F-16 sale.[^6]
[^6]: [Enrichment Data]
Key Takeaways:
- Turkey is seeking to acquire new F-16 fighter jets from the US, with its approval of Sweden's NATO membership linked to the delivery of the jets.
- The US government supports Turkey's plans for updated F-16s and new jets, despite senatorial resistance in the US.
- Sweden's NATO accession protocol is in limbo within a Turkish parliamentary committee, with the country's majority holding a favorable stance toward President Erdogan's wishes.
