Turkey seeks return to F-35 program with $2.4 million lobbying contract with Trump-linked firm

Turkey has stepped up efforts in Washington to rejoin the F-35 fighter jet program, hiring a powerful lobbying firm with close ties to President Donald Trump.

Documents filed with the U.S. Department of Justice show that Turkey’s Ministry of National Defense has signed a one-year, $2.4 million agreement with Ballard Partners.

The contract was signed on August 8 and sets a monthly payment of $200,000. In return, the firm will provide strategic advice, U.S. government relations services and representation of Ankara’s interests before federal institutions.

Another responsibility of Ballard Partners will be to brief the Turkish government on developments in Congress and U.S. policies, with the aim of helping create favorable conditions for Turkey’s return to the F-35 program.

The company is headed by Brian Ballard, a prominent Republican from Florida, Trump supporter and participant in the U.S. president’s campaigns.

The relationship between the firm and Ankara is not new. Turkey also hired Ballard Partners in 2017, during Trump’s first term, through a contract worth $1.5 million.

In recent years, the company has significantly expanded its presence in Washington. Its federal lobbying revenue exceeded $30 million in the first quarter of 2026 alone.

Those who have worked with Ballard Partners include Susan Wiles, who currently heads the White House staff, as well as Pam Bondi, the former U.S. attorney general.

Former Democratic Congressman Robert Wexler and Thomas Bundry have also been assigned to the Turkish case. The latter served as a special assistant to Trump and senior director for legislative affairs at the National Security Council.

Turkey was removed from the U.S. F-35 program in 2019 after deciding to purchase Russia’s S-400 air defense system.

According to Washington’s argument, the use of Russian technology could jeopardize the security of the advanced systems on American aircraft.

However, Ankara has continued seeking a return to the program. Turkish authorities also say that six F-35 aircraft produced for Turkey remain held in the United States.

Several alternatives have been considered in discussions aimed at resolving the deadlock. These include Turkey abandoning the S-400 systems or transferring them to a third country.

Ballard Partners’ engagement through the new contract shows that Ankara is also using lobbying in Washington to persuade the U.S. administration and Congress to clear the way for its return to the F-35 program.