The Trump administration is preparing to proceed with the sale of dozens of jet engines to Turkey worth more than $700 million, according to Reuters, despite objections from some members of the US Congress.
The Turkey defence package is expected to support Ankara’s efforts to strengthen its domestic military aviation capabilities ahead of a NATO summit next month.
Jet engines for KAAN fighter project
The engines, produced by General Electric, will power Turkey’s KAAN fighter jet, the country’s first indigenous combat aircraft. The programme, launched in 2016, forms part of Turkey’s wider strategy to reduce dependence on foreign defence systems.
Officials cited by Reuters said the sale represents an important diplomatic gesture towards Ankara, with US President Donald Trump signalling support for closer ties ahead of the summit in Turkey.
Strained relations over F-35 programme
The defence relationship between Washington and Ankara has faced tensions in recent years, particularly following Turkey’s removal from the F-35 fighter jet programme.
The move came after Turkey acquired Russian S-400 air defence systems, which the US considers a security risk. Despite this, discussions on defence cooperation have continued under the Trump administration.
Congressional objections persist
Some members of Congress have raised objections to the deal, including Representative Gregory Meeks, who criticised the administration’s handling of consultations.
However, the objections are not binding, and the administration is expected to proceed with the defence sale to Turkey in the coming days before formally notifying Congress.
Under US law, Congress can review major arms deals, but the executive branch retains the authority to move forward if it chooses.
Broader NATO and regional context
The proposed sale comes ahead of a NATO summit hosted by Turkey, where defence spending, alliance burden-sharing and regional security issues are expected to dominate discussions.
Analysts say the engine deal falls short of Turkey’s broader goal of rejoining the F-35 programme, but still represents a significant step in bilateral relations.
Turkey has meanwhile developed its own KAAN stealth fighter, though officials acknowledge it will take years before it can fully replace existing US-made aircraft in its fleet.
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