Turkey’s future air defense strategy is increasingly centered on NATO-compatible and domestically developed systems, leaving its Russian-made S-400 air defense system with no meaningful role. As Ankara advances its indigenous Steel Dome integrated air defense network, it is considering acquiring either the US Patriot or the Franco-Italian SAMP/T system to strengthen long-range and ballistic missile defense capabilities. According to Reuters, France has also softened its opposition to a potential SAMP/T sale, raising the possibility of renewed defense cooperation between Turkey, France, and Italy after years of political tensions.

The S-400, purchased from Russia in 2017 and delivered in 2019, has reportedly remained largely unused and is not expected to be integrated into Turkey’s evolving air defense architecture. Instead, Turkey’s homegrown Siper long-range missile system is becoming the backbone of its national air defense, reports Forbes.

Abandoning the S-400 would not only align Turkey more closely with its NATO allies but could also help restore defense ties with Washington, potentially paving the way for renewed access to the F-35 fighter program and advanced US air defense systems. Forbes concludes that Turkey now sees greater strategic value in Western partnerships than in retaining the Russian-made S-400.