US Elections 2024: Biden approves sale of F-16 to Turkey, F-35 to Greece; Decoding Ankara's role to pace buyout

US Elections 2024: In a significant move towards bolstering NATO's capabilities, the Biden administration has granted approval for the sale of F-16 fighter jets to Turkey. This decision follows Turkey's formal ratification of Sweden's NATO membership, underscoring the alliance's strategic growth amid heightened regional tensions post-Russia's incursion into Ukraine.

US Elections 2024: Expanding NATO's arsenal

The US State Department officially informed Congress of its consent to the $23 billion sale of F-16 aircraft to Turkey, coupled with an additional $8.6 billion deal for advanced F-35 fighter jets destined for Greece. This endorsement swiftly followed Turkey's submission of the "instrument of ratification" for Sweden's NATO accession to Washington, marking a crucial milestone in alliance expansion.

The proposed F-16 sale to Turkey encompasses 40 new aircraft, alongside provisions for upgrading 79 existing F-16s in its fleet. Concurrently, Greece is set to receive 40 F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters, along with associated equipment, as part of the approved agreement.

US Elections 2024: Turkey's pursuit of enhanced defence capabilities

Turkey, a NATO ally, has persistently sought to enhance its military capabilities, particularly through modernizing its F-16 fleet. The ratification of Sweden's NATO membership by Turkey was contingent upon securing approval for the acquisition of new fighter jets. While the Biden administration endorsed the sale, concerns regarding human rights issues prompted objections from several lawmakers, including Sens. Ben Cardin and Jim Risch.

However, these objections have now been assuaged, with Senator Cardin expressing cautious optimism about Turkey's commitments to address human rights concerns. He emphasised the importance of reinforcing NATO's collective defence posture amidst escalating Russian aggression in neighbouring regions.

US Elections 2024: Turkey endorsing Sweden sheds diplomatic strain

Turkey's prolonged delay in endorsing Sweden's NATO membership, attributed to perceived security concerns, had strained diplomatic relations within the alliance. The impasse had been a cause for concern among NATO members, particularly amid the backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions.

Sweden's formal integration into NATO awaits the approval of Hungary, the sole NATO member yet to endorse its membership. Anticipating Hungary's swift response following Turkey's decision, US and NATO officials remain optimistic about consolidating NATO's unity and resilience in the face of evolving security challenges.

The approval of F-16 fighter jet sales to Turkey underscores NATO's commitment to enhancing collective defence capabilities and fostering regional stability. As the alliance expands, leveraging strategic partnerships and addressing internal dynamics will be pivotal in navigating geopolitical complexities and upholding NATO's core principles.

F-16 fighter jets, NATO expansion, Biden administration, Turkey, Sweden, Greece, alliance security