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Turkey Considers U.S. Patriot or Franco-Italian SAMP/T Systems for Air Defense
Turkey is evaluating the American MIM-104 Patriot and the Franco-Italian SAMP/T to strengthen its national air defense network. Officials stated these systems would address gaps exposed during the Iran conflict earlier this year.
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Turkey is evaluating the American MIM-104 Patriot and the Franco-Italian SAMP/T missile defense systems as it advances its Steel Dome integrated air defense project. Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler said Ankara is exploring all options that include technology-sharing and joint production.
The minister told Reuters in late June that Turkey seeks cooperation meeting its security needs and aligned with alliance commitments. The decision comes ahead of a NATO summit Turkey is hosting this week.
Turkey purchased two Russian S-400 systems and 120 interceptor missiles in 2019. The systems have remained inactive and were not used during the Iran war earlier this year. The acquisition led to Turkey's exclusion from the Lockheed Martin F-35 program. The U.S. has stated the S-400 and its components must be removed or placed under inspection before any reconsideration of F-35 access.
Turkey is developing the Siper Block-III variant to provide domestic anti-ballistic missile capability. Officials have also discussed joint production arrangements for the SAMP/T system. Reuters reported Monday that France may now be open to a SAMP/T sale after years of opposition.
Any final agreement would still require clarification on technology transfer terms. Turkey is separately negotiating for F110 engines to power its domestically built TF Kaan fighter.
