U.S. makes it clear to Turkey over purchase of Russian air defence system

The U.S. State Department said on Tuesday that Washington has made clear to Turkey that if it proceeds with the purchase of a Russian air defence system the United States will have to reassess Ankara's participation in the F-35 fighter program.

"We've clearly warned Turkey that its potential acquisition of the (Russian) S-400 (air defence system) will result in a reassessment of Turkey's participation in the F-35 program and risk other potential future arms transfers to Turkey," State Department spokesman Robert Palladino told a briefing.