DOD suspends F-35 deliveries to Turkey

The Defense Department has suspended delivery of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter to Turkey in response to Turkey's continued acquisition of the Russian-made S-400 missile defense system, according to a statement from the Pentagon.

"The United States has been clear that Turkey's acquisition of the S-400 is unacceptable,” acting chief Pentagon spokesman Charles Summers said. “Our important dialogue on this matter will continue, however, until they forgo delivery of the S-400, the United States has suspended deliveries and activities associated with the stand-up of Turkey's F-35 operational capability. Should Turkey procure the S-400, their continued participation in the F-35 program is at risk."

Summers said DOD is also seeking secondary sources of supply for Turkish-produced F-35 parts.

“We very much regret the current situation facing our F-35 partnership with Turkey, and the DOD is taking prudent steps to protect the shared investments made in our critical technology,” he said.