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The state arms exporter of Russia, Rosoboronexport's CEO Alexander Mikheev made a statement today (August 21), announcing that the company will start implementing the contract to deliver the S-400 air defense missile systems to Turkey next year.
As reported by Sputnik news website, Mikheev said, "As for the delivery of S-400s to Turkey, the contract is implemented within the agreed time limits. In 2019, we will start implementing the contract."
Mikheev also added that Rosoboronexport has been evaluating the option that the company carry out its contracts with its foreign partners in the national currencies of the countries in question rather than the US Dollar.
Russia announced in December 2017 that Turkey purchased four S-400 air defense missile systems in exchange for 2.5 billion dollars.
The US stopped the delivery of F-35 jets
On August 13, the US President Donald Trump approved a law draft, which has suspended the delivery of 100 F-35 jets to Turkey.
The contract between Turkey and Russia, which has foreseen the delivery of S-400s to Turkey, was referred to as one of the reasons for suspension.
The response by the NATO
If the S-400 air defense missile systems are delivered to Turkey, it will be the first country, which is both a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and possesses the S-400s.
In a statement dated November 17, 2017, the Deputy Under Secretary of the US Air Force Heidi H. Grant said, "In case Turkey purchases the S-400 air defense system, its access to the NATO technology will be restricted." (HK/SD)
* Photograph: Anadolu Agency / Archive
