Reports that Turkey called the purchase of S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems from Russia a mistake is not true. On Monday, November 23, RIA Novosti reported this with reference to a diplomatic source in Ankara.
Earlier on Monday, a number of Russian media outlets reported that despite the successful tests of the Russian S-400, Turkey was allegedly disappointed with the purchase of the complexes because of their “ineffectiveness”.
“The information that Turkey considers the purchase of the S-400 to be a mistake does not correspond to reality,” the source said.
On November 12, it became known that Turkey continues to check and prepare the S-400 air defense systems purchased from Russia.
Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar stressed that Ankara is ready to solve the problem with the United States regarding the compatibility of S-400 and F-35 fighters – a proposal for a joint working group is still pending.
On October 16, Turkey for the first time tested the S-400 “Triumph” purchased from Russia in exercises. Three missiles were launched, all of which successfully hit their designated targets.
This again raised concerns in the United States. Washington has repeatedly criticized Ankara and threatened it with sanctions for acquiring Russian complexes.
On November 2, US senators began drafting a bill to regulate the sale of advanced weapons, including fifth-generation fighters, to various countries that have purchased foreign weapons that pose a potential threat to the F-35, such as the Russian S-400.