The president of Turkish Defense Industries, Ismail Demir, confirmed that a huge development is expected next week: "I will not tell the exact date now, but you will see in the second week of July," Demir was quoted as saying by private Turkish broadcaster NTV.

Addressing fears that it could radically alter the military balance in the Mediterranean, and amid accusations that the deal solidifies Russian influence over the Levant, the Turkish defense industries chief added, "However, we can use any weapon in our hand anywhere in Turkey whenever necessary."

Amid threats of US sanctions on its NATO ally, and following Turkish counter threats of sanction on Washington which most western pundits have brushed off as unrealistic and laughable, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan repeatedly insisted over the past months that it is "a done deal," pledging Ankara is moving forward "no matter what the consequences will be" — and despite the disruption of Turkey's Lockheed purchased F-35 stealth fighter jets.