Ankara: A Turkish military expert confirmed that Ankara could face operational restrictions on F-35 aircraft if Washington agrees to sell them, and that key control keys would remain exclusively with the United States.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, retired Turkish Air Force Colonel Ihsan Sefa stated in a press conference: “I am addressing those who support the purchase of F-35 aircraft. I told you before: When you buy these aircraft, which are the source of all the problems, you will not have the key to them, and you will not be able to use them where the United States does not want you to.”

Colonel Sefa emphasized that former US President Donald Trump’s statements during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu highlight these concerns. The discussions reportedly revolve around ensuring that if the F-35s are delivered, they are not used against Israel.

Amid these developments, Turkish National Defense Minister Yasar Gler had previously mentioned that Israel and Greece were lobby
ing the United States to deny Ankara access to the F-35 aircraft.

Furthermore, it is noteworthy that US President Donald Trump announced last September that the United States might consider allowing Ankara to purchase F-35 aircraft if President Erdogan “did something” for America.