US delivery of new F-16s to Türkiye may take several years

The delivery of new F-16 fighters Türkiye requested from the United States may be delayed until 2028 due to the large number of orders, reported from the Hürriyet newspaper.

"Last night, the review period by the US Congress regarding Türkiye’s purchase of F-16 aircraft from the United States ended, and the deal was officially approved. Negotiations will now begin between the manufacturer and the relevant institutions. Delivery of new aircraft may be delayed due to the large number of orders,” the paper said.

Türkiye has asked the US for 40 new F-16 Block 70 fighters and upgrade kits for the 79 aircraft in its inventory.

Yesterday the US Congress approved the deal with Türkiye. The State Department estimates the deal at $23 billion.

"According to a report published by the US Congressional Research Service last September, Lockheed Martin says it already has more than 140 orders and has a monthly production capacity of 4 aircraft. According to estimates, Türkiye should receive the first new F-16 Block 70 aircraft in 2028 or 2029," the statement said.





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