Is there a 'Greek islands' condition for F-16 procurement from the US? Ministry of National Defense sources clarify...

Ministry of National Defense (MSB) sources answered questions from journalists during a press briefing.

"NOT SUBJECT TO ANY CONDITIONS"

Regarding questions about the latest status of the F-16 Block-70s requested from the US, ministry sources noted the following:

"The approval process in the US Congress for our request, which includes the procurement of 40 new F-16 Block-70s in line with the needs of our Air Force Command, the modernization of 79 existing F-16s, and the associated ammunition, materials, and equipment, began on January 26.

Once the letters of offer and acceptance reach us, work on the timeline will begin, and thus the cost of the projects will be clearly stated. The requested ammunition requirements were determined as a result of a detailed study, taking into account operational needs, inventory status, and technical requirements. Contrary to what has been claimed by some Greek-based news websites, the issue of F-16 procurement and modernization is not subject to any conditions."

F-35 STATEMENT

Regarding the latest statements made by the US concerning the F-35, ministry sources assessed: "This issue has been discussed and debated extensively. There is currently no change in the stance of either country. The statements coming from the US should be evaluated as a declaration of goodwill at this stage. If there is any change or development on this matter, we will provide an update."

EUROFIGHTER TYPHOON REQUEST

In response to a question about whether Turkey's request for Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets is still ongoing, sources replied: "Our request continues. A positive approach from Germany, one of the consortium countries, is expected on this matter. Discussions and efforts are ongoing."

Responding to questions regarding Canada's lifting of the embargo on defense industry products, ministry sources shared the following information:

"The export restrictions applied by Canada on defense materials to our country since 2019 for various reasons were inconsistent with the spirit of solidarity within NATO, as well as with collective efforts aimed at protecting regional and international security. While this latest step taken by Canada is viewed positively, our expectation from our allies is the complete removal of all kinds of restrictions against our country. The open or covert embargoes and restrictions we have faced have once again shown how important our nationalization efforts in the defense industry have been in recent years. We must trust and support our domestic and national defense industry, for which significant work is being carried out under the leadership and encouragement of our President."

News Source: İHA