IKV Chairman Ayhan Zeytinoğlu stated that as an alternative to the F-35 program Turkey could participate in the new generation fighter jet project jointly initiated by France, Germany and Spain. IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu proposed that the possibility that Turkey could participate in this project, which is part of the EU’s efforts in creating capabilities autonomous from the US, should be explored. IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu stated the following:

The new generation fighter jets to be designed by Dassault Aviation and Airbus are set to replace Rafale and Eurofighter which are currently in use. The UK is also designing a new fighter jet called Temptest as a competitor to this project. Defence ministers of France, Germany and Spain signed a cooperation agreement at the Paris Air Show on 17 June 2019. Under the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), the fighter jet is set to be accompanied by drones and an air combat cloud. The French and German governments are planning to invest 4 billion euros to the new fighter jet by 2025, the first prototype of which is foreseen by 2026. Alternatives could be explored by Turkey whose removal from the F-35 programme is possible due to the arrival of Russian S400. Turkey’s possible participation in the joint fighter jet project should be considered.”

IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu also talked about Turkey’s cooperation within the scope of Eurosam which was established in 1989 as a joint venture of France and Italy and stated that Eurosam’s defence systems could be used both autonomously and by being integrated with other systems. Reminding that Turkey signed a cooperation agreement with Eurosam for development of the long range air and missile defence system, IKV Chairman suggested a similar model to be applied for the fighter jet project.

IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu also criticized the EU’s decision to adopt measures against Turkey and indicated that the Turkey’s importance for the EU which is in the process of forming a defence union has increased:

“Recently, the US’ reluctance to assume a role in defence of Europe has led the EU to speed up its efforts to take care of itself. Both German Chancellor Merkel and French President Macron have emphasised the need to create a defence force and strengthen the European defence industry. In this context, the UK’s withdrawal from the EU is concerning in terms of a common EU defence capability. Closer defence cooperation with an important NATO ally and a regional power like Turkey could contribute to EU’s efforts in realising its common defence vision. The Council has spelled out the possibility for third country participation in projects carried out under permanent structured cooperation (PESCO). It is highly likely that Greek Cypriot Administration will try to block Turkey’s participation. However, Turkey’s potential significant contribution to EU’s defence initiatives could lead to the EU’s approach to the Cyprus question to be questionized.”

Lastly, IKV Chairman referred to the recent Foreign Council Conclusions on Turkey and said:

“As to the issue of East Med hydrocarbon exploration, it is extremely unfortunate that the EU in full reliance on Greek and Greek Cypriot claims has adopted restrictive measures against Turkey. The EU should adopt a more realistic approach vis-à-vis Turkey and develop possibilities for cooperation. At this point, Turkey rather than turning its back to Europe should continue its efforts for dialogue.”