F-16 message from the US to Turkey: Are the F-16 planes in the talks?

US Ambassador to Ankara Jeffry Flake posted a photo of his meeting with Defense Minister Yaşar Güler on his X account.

Flake said that Turkey has taken an “important step” in the process of acquiring F-16 Block 70 fighter jets from the United States.

"An important step forward was taken today for Turkey to acquire the latest generation of F-16 Block 70 fighter jets and modernize its existing F-16 fleet. This is a good step forward for U.S. national security, Turkey's national security, and NATO interoperability."

The US State Department's Bureau of Political-Military Affairs said, “The United States is proud to announce today's significant step forward in Turkey's purchase of the latest generation of F-16 Block 70 fighter jets, which are only available to the closest allies and partners. This is just the latest example of the United States' unwavering commitment to its security partnership with Turkey."

WHAT HAPPENED?

Turkey made its first request for F-16 fighter jets in October 2021.

In January 2024, the US government approved the sale of F-16 jets to Turkey.

The decision, a $23 billion deal, followed Turkey's approval of Sweden's NATO membership.

It is known that Turkey will buy 40 new F-16 Block 70 fighter jets and modernize the 79 it already has.