Turkey is positioning itself for one of the most ambitious procurement programs in its history, aiming to modernize both its civil aviation fleet and its defense capabilities. According to Bloomberg reporting, Ankara’s plan involves placing large orders for Boeing airliners alongside Lockheed Martin fighter jets, in a package that could reshape the country’s role in global aviation and security. At the same time, Turkey is pressing for over US$10 billion in local production commitments to accelerate development of its domestic aerospace industry.

Commercial Aviation Meets Defense Modernization
The scale of the planned purchases highlights Turkey’s twin goals: reinforcing its global commercial aviation presence while securing advanced military hardware. For Boeing, the airliner deal would not only expand Turkey’s fleet but also underscore its growing importance as a hub for regional air travel. On the defense side, Ankara is seeking Lockheed Martin fighters, including new F-16s, and has hinted at interest in rejoining the F-35 program, from which it was removed in 2019 after acquiring Russian S-400 missile systems.

Industrial Ambitions and Local Production
A key feature of the deal is Ankara’s insistence on local manufacturing. Turkey wants U.S. suppliers to commit to production and assembly inside the country, a move aimed at creating jobs, transferring technical know-how, and reducing reliance on foreign supply chains. While this aligns with President Erdoğan’s industrial policy of building self-sufficiency, it presents challenges for U.S. defense companies, which must navigate strict export controls and political oversight.

Diplomatic Stakes and Geopolitical Risks
The proposed purchases are as much political as they are economic. Erdoğan’s meeting with Trump on September 25 will be pivotal in determining whether Washington views Turkey as a partner worth reinvesting in. Congressional resistance to arms exports, NATO tensions, and Turkey’s past ties to Russia remain potential stumbling blocks. Financing and implementation complexities could further complicate execution.

Looking Ahead
If approved, the deal could mark a turning point in U.S.–Turkey relations, revitalizing ties strained in recent years. For Ankara, it would represent both modernization and industrial empowerment. For Washington, it would reaffirm Turkey’s role as a strategic ally. The question is whether political approval and financial capacity will match the scale of Turkey’s ambition.