Tyrkia forsterker forsvarskontakten med Russland - Defenseworld.net

 

Beyond S-400, Turkey Seeks Russian Fighter Jet, Submarines

• Our Bureau
• 10:16 AM, October 4, 2021
• 7900

Russian fifth-generation stealthy Su-57 jets at Victory Day Parade in 2020 @UAC

Aside of seeking a second batch of S-400 Air Defense System (ADS) as well as technology transfer to build some of its components, Turkey has hinted that a partnership with Russia on fighter jets and submarines could be on the cards.

President Erdogan's quick hop to the Russian city of Sochi last week where he met President Vladimir Putin signals the beginning of a deepening defense partnership far beyond the purchase of a stand-alone S-400 ADS. “We had the opportunity to discuss comprehensively what steps to take in the production of plane engines, what steps to take regarding fighter jets,” he said, adding that other measures could include building ships and submarines.

Russia could also be involved in the construction of Turkey’s second and third nuclear power plants, Erdoğan told journalists onboard the presidential plane, adding that Putin suggested developing platforms for space launch platforms.

Turkey seems to have given up on receiving F-35 jets and is reportedly seeking a refund of $1.4 billion advance paid from the U.S. "We made a $1.4 billion payment. What will become of that?" Erdogan said. "We did not—and do not—earn this money easily. Either they will give us our planes or they will give us the money."

Power Problems with Turkey’s Fifth-Generation Fighter

Ankara has openly welcomed participation of foreign countries in its fifth generation jet project. Ismail Demir, head of Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) told the local media recently, “The door is open for friendly and allied countries who want to be part of this project” to build the stealthy TF-X National Combat Aircraft (MMU).

While SSB has always maintained that the TF-X fighter jet would be completely indigenous, it is known that Turkish industry lacks certain critical technologies required to take this project to fruition.