Latest News from Turkey

📅May 17, 2026 at 1:00 AM
🌍TR
Turkey’s top stories today center on Erdogan’s renewed F-35 talks with the U.S., defense-industry growth, and ongoing domestic and regional security tensions.
1

Erdogan says Turkey continues talks with U.S. on F-35 jets

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Turkey is still in contact with U.S. officials over the possible procurement of F-35 fighter jets and expressed hope for a positive outcome. He said Ankara’s position is clear and that negotiations are continuing between the two sides. Source 1

2

Turkey hopes for positive outcome in F-35 negotiations

In a separate report, Erdogan reiterated that Turkey’s teams are speaking with their U.S. counterparts on the F-35 issue. The comments suggest Ankara is still pursuing a resolution despite long-running friction over the program. Source 3

3

Erdogan highlights progress on Turkey’s KAAN fighter jet

Erdogan said Turkey’s domestically developed KAAN fifth-generation fighter program is advancing steadily. He described it as a major step for the defense industry and said it would mark a new phase once completed. Source 3

4

Turkey’s defense sector draws major interest at SAHA Expo 2026

Erdogan said the SAHA Expo 2026 in Istanbul showcased more than 200 new defense products and produced about $8 billion in signed deals. He said the event attracted over 150,000 visitors, reflecting the rapid growth of Turkey’s defense industry. Source 3

5

Turkey keeps military ties with Washington in focus amid F-35 push

The renewed F-35 discussions underscore Turkey’s efforts to improve defense cooperation with the United States. The issue remains one of the most closely watched parts of Ankara-Washington relations. Source 1Source 3

6

Turkey’s defense ambitions continue to expand beyond the F-35

Erdogan framed KAAN as only the beginning of Turkey’s efforts to build more advanced weapons systems. His remarks point to a broader push for defense self-reliance and future export potential. Source 3

7

Erdogan’s past warning over Incirlik underscores U.S.-Turkey tensions

Earlier reporting recalled Erdogan’s warning that Turkey could close Incirlik Air Base if necessary, amid disputes with Washington. The base hosts U.S. military assets and has remained a symbol of strain between the two NATO allies. Source 4

8

Kurecik radar base also mentioned in Turkey-U.S. disputes

In the same context, Erdogan said Turkey could also shut down the Kurecik radar base if needed. The comments reflected Ankara’s willingness to use strategic military facilities as leverage in disputes with the U.S. Source 4

9

Turkey continues to face domestic security concerns

Le Monde’s Turkey coverage highlights recent school shootings and the resulting public alarm over violence in schools. The incidents have triggered criticism of authorities and debate about whether the government failed to anticipate the danger. Source 5

10

Turkey remains in the spotlight over regional and geopolitical developments

Recent Turkey-related coverage also points to Ankara’s role in broader Middle East and security dynamics, including shifting alignments and defense cooperation. Turkey continues to be tracked closely because of its influence on NATO, the Eastern Mediterranean, and regional security. Source 6Source 7