Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Pentagon comments on Ankara’s decision to buy Russian S-400 missile systems

Ankara’s decision to buy Russian S-400 missile systems
The United States is displeased with Ankara’s decision to buy Russian S-400 missile systems, US Department of Defense Spokesperson Johnny Michael gave to understand to a TASS correspondent on Tuesday when asked to comment on reports about Turkey’s making a down payment for such systems.

"We have relayed our concerns to Turkish officials regarding the potential purchase of the S-400," he said. "We have an open dialogue on this issue, and have emphasized the importance of maintaining NATO interoperability on any major defense systems procurements."·

"Turkey is a key NATO Ally, and we are committed to our strong defense partnership," he went on to say. "The United States and Turkey have a robust and significant defense-trade and military-sales relationship. Turkey continues to pursue anti-missile systems from NATO Allies, including the U.S., for its broader, long-term missile defense needs."

He repeated Washington’s positions in discussions with Ankara concerning weapons purchases in countries that are not members of the North Atlantic Alliance, including Russia, that such weapons are incompatible with NATO’s. "A NATO interoperable missile defense system remains the best option to defend Turkey from the full range of threats in its region," he said.

US Secretary of Defense James Mattis voiced this position at a press briefing in July. However he admitted that it was Ankara’s sovereign decision.
[tass.com]
 12/9/17
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