The Lead
Israeli political and defense echelons are increasingly concerned by the possibility of Turkey acquiring F-35 stealth fighters, according to political commentator Sraya Harush. Speaking in a security-policy interview on Sunday, Harush stated that Israel will take all necessary steps to prevent the sale, while emphasizing that Israel's unique technological capabilities would preserve its regional air superiority even if the deal proceeds.
The prospect of Turkey re-entering the F-35 Lightning II program has emerged as a significant point of concern within Israel's security establishment. Political commentator Sraya Harush, in an interview with Channel 14, detailed the current atmosphere in Jerusalem, noting that both political and defense leaders view a potential Turkish acquisition of the advanced stealth platform as a development to be actively countered.
Strategic Concerns and Diplomatic Efforts
According to Harush, the Israeli leadership is prepared to exert significant diplomatic pressure to ensure that Turkey remains excluded from the program. This stance follows prior reports of a renewed push by the U.S. administration to reconsider Ankara's status. The primary concern for Israel remains the preservation of its Qualitative Military Edge (QME) in the Mediterranean, a principle that ensures Israel maintains the technological superiority necessary to deter regional adversaries.
Maintaining the Qualitative Edge
Despite the efforts to block the sale, Harush noted that the defense echelon maintains a level of confidence in Israel's long-term air supremacy. He explained that even in a scenario where Turkey successfully obtains the F-35, Israel possesses "unique systems and capabilities" that are not shared with other regional operators. These proprietary Israeli modifications to the F-35 platform, often referred to as the F-35I 'Adir', are designed to ensure that the Israel Air Force retains a distinct advantage over any other fleet of the same aircraft type.
Context of the Turkish-US Friction
Turkey was originally a partner in the F-35 program but was removed following its purchase of the Russian S-400 missile defense system. Recent diplomatic shifts have signaled a potential thaw, leading to the current warnings from Israeli observers. As reported by The Zioneer Intelligence Desk, the issue is expected to be a key topic in high-level discussions between Israeli and American officials, as Jerusalem seeks to clarify the strategic implications of any change in U.S. policy toward Ankara.
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