The US government’s position on Turkey’s reintegration into the F-35 program has not changed, as, according to the State Department of Legislative Affairs, the US remains fully committed to the implementation of the Caatsa law. This legislation prevents Turkey from gaining F-35 because of the possession of the Russian S-400 system.

The following report was made by a senior official at the State Department’s Legislative Affairs Office in the reply letter sent to MP Chris Pappa.

As stated characteristically, “the United States’ position on the acquisition and continued occupation of the Russian S-400 Turkey has not changed, and the conditions for acquiring F-35 aircraft by the United States are known, including those defined by Article 1245 of the Law on the Defense Budget.”

MP Chris Pappa had been led by the Initiative to send a letter to Foreign Minister Marko Rubio, in which legislators expressed their concern about the protection of US defense and information resources in relation to Turkey and compliance with Caatsa.

Following is the letter of the State Department to MP Chris Pappas:

‘Honorable Mr Pope,

Thank you for your August 7 letter to Foreign Minister Rubio for the sanctions provided for by law on the treatment of America’s opponents through sanctions (Caatsa) and Turkey.

The US position has been clear to the Turkish government on our laws and policies on the acquisition of Russian defense equipment and the consequences of acquiring F-35 aircraft from Turkey.

The Trump government remains fully committed to protecting US defense and information resources and compliance with US law, including the Caatsa law.

The position of the United States on the acquisition and continuing occupation of the Turkey of the Russian S-400 system has not changed, and the conditions for the acquisition of F-35 aircraft by the United States are known, including those defined by Article 1245 of the Defense Defense budget of 2020.

Turkey is a long -term ally in NATO with a history of significant contributions to alliance missions. The United States’ defense relationship with Turkey remains vital to both the United States and NATO security interests.

The United States is seeking to work with Turkey on common goals and engage in a dialogue to resolve disputes.

We have expressed our dissatisfaction with the Ankara of the S-400 Ankara and we have made clear the steps that should be followed in the context of our ongoing evaluation for the implementation of CAATSA sanctions.

Thank you for your constant commitment to the US security interests. We hope that this information will be useful to you.

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With appreciation,

Paul D. Gualianoni

A senior office official »