Russia has approached Turkey with a request to repurchase some of the S-400 missile defense systems it sold to Ankara, according to diplomatic sources familiar with the matter.
The request reportedly comes amid Russia’s intensified military spending and supply shortages linked to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Moscow, the original developer of the S-400 system, is said to be exploring ways to resecure the hardware for its own defense needs.
Turkey acquired the S-400s in 2019 in a deal worth more than $2 billion, a move that strained its relations with the United States and NATO allies, leading Washington to impose sanctions and suspend Ankara from the F-35 fighter jet program.
Officials in Ankara have not confirmed whether the request will be considered. Analysts note that returning the systems could carry diplomatic costs for Turkey, as it may be seen as bowing to Moscow’s pressure while also risking further complications with the West.
The S-400 deal has long been a flashpoint in Turkey’s balancing act between NATO commitments and its strategic ties with Russia. Whether Ankara agrees to the repurchase may determine how both alliances view Turkey’s future defense posture.
