Turkey is asserting its crucial role in European defense, emphasizing that security cannot be assured without its involvement. President Erdogan and officials have highlighted the importance of Turkey’s military and defense industry, while Ankara has maintained complex ties with both Ukraine and Russia. Its growth in defense exports and strategic military capabilities position Turkey as a key player amidst changing global dynamics.
Turkey is positioning itself as a crucial player in European defense, particularly given its status as NATO’s second-largest military force and its strategic location along the Black Sea. In light of recent shifts in U.S. foreign policy, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has underscored that Turkey’s involvement is essential for ensuring European security, stating, “It is inconceivable to establish European security without Turkey.”
A senior official from Turkey’s defense ministry reiterated this sentiment, emphasizing that the redefined security parameters in Europe make Turkey’s role indispensable. While Turkey has supported Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia, supplying military resources such as combat drones, it has notably refrained from joining sanctions against Moscow, maintaining its strong bilateral ties with both nations.
Turkey has made significant advancements in its defense industry, achieving a remarkable 29 percent growth in defense exports, reaching $7.1 billion in 2024. Erdogan noted that these exports have positioned Turkey as the 11th largest global arms exporter, bolstered by successful sales of Bayraktar TB2 drones to numerous countries. Expert Tom Waldyn asserts, “Sales to European countries, particularly EU members, add credibility to Turkey’s argument it is an important player in European security.”
With an active military of 373,200 and a reserve force of 378,700, Turkey’s strategic military presence, particularly on NATO’s eastern flank, has been effective in its engagements in combat operations. In recognizing Turkey’s stable relations with both Kyiv and Moscow, Nebahat Tanriverdi Yasar points to Turkey’s ambition to strategically influence the balance of power in the region as the EU seeks greater responsibility for its own security amidst changing U.S. foreign policies.
Despite its strategic positioning, Turkey’s cooperation with the EU has been complicated by the ongoing Cyprus dispute. Political scientist Sumbul Kaya contends that Turkey’s motivations are largely tied to enhancing its own national interests, arguing that its military interventions are primarily for internal security. “There’s no question of sending troops to fight wars everywhere — that would not go down well with the population,” she stated. The current crisis also serves to highlight Turkey’s dual role as a NATO member and an EU candidate.
In summary, Turkey’s strategic military and diplomatic positioning marks it as a pivotal player in European defense, particularly in light of U.S. foreign policy shifts. President Erdogan’s statements emphasize the necessity of Turkey for European security, while the nation’s defense industry continues to grow, enhancing its role on the global stage. Though geopolitical challenges remain, Turkey’s focus on pragmatic engagement and defense cooperation paints a picture of its intent to reshape regional power dynamics.
Original Source: www.kpvi.com
