Turkey and Russia can discuss possibilities for co-operation of jointly develop and produce a fifth-generation fighter jet, said Viktor Kladov, the International Cooperation and Regional Policy Department director at Russia’s state-run defense company, Rostec.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency (AA), Viktor Kladovsaid about possible joint fighter jet production between the two countries.

He said that there is a need for a long consultation process between Russia and Turkey if they were to jointly produce a fifth-generation fighter jet. “For such a major project, the parties should not only be interested but also be prepared to work together,” he added.

“Though it might be a ‘serious’ decision, I am convinced that the two countries are capable of implementing such a project,” Kladov said.

The fifth-generation fighter jet’s programme is a priority for President Erdogan, who wants to build a national defense industry to drum up nationalist support and reduce Turkey’s reliance on outsiders amid growing strains with many Nato allies.

The geopolitics situation is reinforcing Ankara’s desire for an indigenous technological base and weapons systems that may be less disrupted by chilling relations with Europe and the United States.

But at the same time, Turkey will need a partnership with Russia or China, to develop a fifth-generation fighter jet.