Turkey hires lobbying firm to push for return to F-35 program

Turkey has intensified efforts to rejoin the U.S.-led F-35 fighter jet program by signing a significant lobbying contract in Washington. On August 8, the Turkish Ministry of National Defense entered into a one-year agreement with Ballard Partners, a prominent lobbying firm led by Brian Ballard, a well-connected figure within the Republican Party and close to President Donald Trump.

The contract, valued at $2.4 million, stipulates a monthly fee of $200,000. According to documents filed with the U.S. Department of Justice, the firm is tasked with providing government relations, strategic consulting, and advocacy services on behalf of the Turkish government. Ballard Partners will also monitor and report on legislative developments within the U.S. Congress and broader policy shifts that could impact Turkey's defense objectives.

This move follows Turkey's long-standing desire to re-enter the F-35 program, from which it was excluded after its purchase of the Russian S-400 missile system. The hiring of a firm with deep ties to the Trump administration signals Ankara's strategic attempt to leverage political influence to resolve long-standing defense procurement disputes and improve its bilateral military relationship with the United States.