The attempt to halt the $23 billion sale of F-16 fighter jets and modernization kits to Turkey by the U.S. Senate was defeated soundly on Thursday.
The sale, which was approved by President Joe Biden’s administration, faced criticism from Republican Senator Rand Paul, who introduced a resolution of disapproval.
Despite the criticism, the Senate voted 79 to 13 against stopping the sale. Paul argued that allowing the sale would embolden Turkey’s “misbehavior,” pointing to concerns about the Turkish government’s actions. However, supporters of the sale emphasized the importance of honoring commitments to a NATO ally.
The Biden administration officially notified Congress on January 26 of its decision to proceed with the sale, which includes 40 Lockheed Martin F-16s and nearly 80 modernization kits.
F-16 fighter jets (Credits: Duvar English)
The sale had faced delays due to various issues, including Turkey’s initial refusal to approve Sweden’s NATO membership. However, the sale moved forward after Turkey finally ratified Sweden’s NATO membership.
The U.S. Arms Export Control Act grants Congress the authority to block major weapons sales through a resolution of disapproval in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Despite the law’s existence for fifty years, no resolution has successfully passed both chambers and survived a presidential veto.
The context of Sweden and Finland seeking NATO membership amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 was highlighted.
Finland’s membership was confirmed last year, but Sweden’s application faced obstacles from Turkey and Hungary. Approval from all NATO members is required for countries seeking to join the alliance.
The outcome of the Senate vote underscores the significance of maintaining commitments to NATO allies and the complexities surrounding arms sales and geopolitical considerations.
The decision to proceed with the sale reflects the Biden administration’s approach to balancing strategic alliances and arms deals in a rapidly evolving global context.
