Turkey considers ditching F-16 Block 70 request in favour of non-US alternative
Possible alternative choices to the F-16 Block 70 could be the Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale, the Russian Su-35 or the Chinese J-10. (Photo: USAF)
Click here for Shephard's in-depth background file on the F-16.
Turkish presidential security and foreign policy adviser Cagri Erhan recently said that the request sent to the US to acquire F-16 Block 70s was a mistake as the deal remains in deadlock and his country continues to battle with the aftermath of the recent earthquakes.
Many Turkish officials share this sentiment and have expressed it explicitly as US lawmakers continue to block the potential $20 billion sale of F-16 fighters.
Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said in February that ‘the F-16 is not the only option', adding that ‘we expect common sense to
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
Read this Article
Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 1 free story per week
- Personalised news alerts
- Daily and weekly newsletters
Unlimited Access
Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
- Unlimited access to all published premium news
More from Air Warfare
-
Apache AH-64E fires Spike long-range missiles
The Rafael Advanced Defence Systems Spike, a multi-purpose EO missile system, can attack targets at ranges up to 25km and has been test-fired from an Apache AH-64E attack helicopter.
-
Irish C295 MPAs fitted with Viasat SATCOM terminals
The terminals enable secure, reliable satellite connectivity and support a range of command, control and communication needs for the C295 aircraft, which have roles in maritime patrol, tactical transport, special operations and medical evacuation.
-
Lithuania orders three Airbus H145 helicopters for various roles
Lithuania has secured a deal with Airbus Helicopters for three H145M multi-mission aircraft for special forces operations and other roles, as part of the country's attempt to strengthen its defence capabilities.