The fate of the Russian S-400 air defence systems that Turkey has procured remains at the centre of political debate in Ankara, following comments by Defence Minister Yaşar Güler, who avoided revealing whether, and in what way, the systems have been fully integrated into Turkey’s air defence network.

Responding to a question from İYİ Party deputy parliamentary group leader Turhan Çömez, Güler said that the Turkish Armed Forces deploy and evaluate all the weapon systems at their disposal, based on the operational experience they acquire.

“The Turkish Armed Forces develop the systems and weapons they procure from domestic and foreign sources, including air defence and fighter aircraft capabilities, making use of the experience gained in the field and taking all necessary measures to ensure that they are ready for war at any time,” he said.

Çömez had asked to be informed whether the S-400s had been integrated into Turkey’s existing radar, early-warning, command and control networks, as well as the country’s overall air defence system.

The Turkish Defence Minister replied that the relevant capabilities are being designed on the basis of existing infrastructure and are being strengthened in parallel by developments in the defence industry.

“The necessary assessments are being carried out by our ministry in accordance with our national rights and interests. When there are specific developments on this issue, the public will be informed in due course by the competent authorities,” he added.

The S-400 issue and relations with NATO

Turkey purchased the Russian S-400 systems from Moscow, prompting a strong reaction from the United States and its allies in NATO, who expressed concerns about their compatibility with the Alliance’s systems.

Ankara’s decision led to its removal in 2019 from the US F-35 fighter jet development programme, while Washington imposed sanctions under the US legislation known as the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).

There was no Turkish military delegation in Syria

Meanwhile, Yaşar Güler responded to another question from Çömez concerning the Israeli attack on Abu al-Duhur airbase in Syria.

The Turkish Defence Minister said that there was no Turkish military delegation or team at the base either before or during the Israeli operation.