Russia was “ready to cooperate” to sell Ankara Su-57 fighter jets if Turkey’s participation in the F-35 jet program with the U.S. fell through, the head of the Russian state-owned Rostec Corporation’s Sergey Chemezov said on May 2.
“These fifth-generation Russian fighter jets [Su-57] have outstanding qualities, and show promise for export,” he told Turkey’s state-run Anadolu Agency, adding that the jets were ready to be sold.
Asked about possible production in Turkey of the S-400 and Su-57, Chemezov said Russia would “gladly evaluate” any Turkish suggestions for localization or transfer of technologies.
Emphasizing Turkey’s progress since the early 2000s to replace imports in its defense industry, he said the country was highly competent in producing rifle armaments, armored vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles.
“We are ready to support Turkey’s desire to develop its own defense industry,” added Chemezov.