US bipartisan Representatives expressed Tuesday their concern over Turkey’s plans to develop its armed drones industry.
In a bipartisan letter addressed to Secretary of State Antony Blinken dated Aug. 9, some 27 members of Congress called for the suspension of the transfer of drone technology to Turkey.
“We are writing to express our concern over Turkey’s armed unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) program, which has destabilized multiple regions of the globe and threatens US interests, allies, and partners,” the letter said.
It noted that the Turkish government is constantly violating its relationship with the US, particularly following Ankara’s purchase of the Russian S-400 missile air defense system in violation of US laws.
The Representatives added that the Turkish government is also planning to purchase a second S-400 system from Russia.
“Turkish actions have continued to run contrary to its responsibilities as a NATO member state, despite its ejection from the F-35 joint strike fighter program and the imposition of sanctions. These actions include the proliferation of drones,” the letter said.
It added that “Over the last year, Turkish drones have been deployed by Azerbaijan against Armenian civilians in Artsakh, Syria; against Kurdish forces that have partnered with the US in the war against ISIS; and in Libya’s civil war.”
The letter also warned from Turkey’s intention to establish a permanent drone base in occupied Cyprus, which will deploy attack drones from its assault ships.
To conclude, the letter urged an immediate suspension of any export permits for US drone technology to Turkey pending a State Department review.
“We request a briefing from the Department of State that details potential ramifications of Turkish drone proliferation, employment, and sales; whether or not Turkey is developing UAVs with materials or technologies that would be in violation of currently imposed sanctions, and whether Turkey’s actions constitute yet another violation of NATO rules and bylaws,” the letter said.
