Washington/Ankara, June 25: The United States is preparing to move forward with the sale of General Electric fighter jet engines worth more than $700 million to Turkey, in a major defence gesture ahead of next month’s NATO Summit. The engines will power Turkey’s indigenous fifth-generation KAAN combat aircraft, signalling a cautious improvement in defence ties between the two NATO allies despite lingering disagreements.
KAAN Fighter Programme Gets a Boost
The proposed package includes dozens of GE F110 jet engines that will be used in Turkey’s domestically developed KAAN stealth fighter programme. Ankara has been pursuing the aircraft as part of its drive for defence self-reliance after being removed from the F-35 programme in 2019. One source familiar with the deal said the package is valued at more than $700 million.
NATO Summit Diplomacy
The timing of the decision is significant, with Turkey set to host the NATO Summit in early July. The proposed sale is being viewed as a goodwill measure aimed at strengthening defence cooperation between Washington and Ankara before alliance leaders gather for discussions on regional security, burden-sharing and defence spending.
Congressional Objections Persist
The proposed sale still faces criticism from some members of the US Congress. Representative Gregory Meeks has objected to the package, citing concerns over Turkey’s continued possession of the Russian-made S-400 air defence system and the administration’s handling of congressional oversight. However, the Trump administration is expected to proceed with formal notification to Congress in the coming days.
F-35 Issue Remains Unresolved
Although the engine sale represents progress, it does not resolve Turkey’s long-standing demand to rejoin the F-35 programme. US law continues to prohibit Turkey’s return while it retains the S-400 system, which Washington argues poses a security risk to sensitive F-35 technology. US Vice President JD Vance has confirmed that a review is underway regarding Turkey’s compliance with US legal requirements.
Strategic Signal to NATO
Analysts believe the engine deal is an important step toward improving bilateral defence ties, but stress that the broader relationship will depend on resolving the F-35 dispute and addressing wider security concerns. For Turkey, securing engines for the KAAN programme is critical as it seeks to develop an independent fifth-generation fighter capability while reducing reliance on foreign defence suppliers.