Turkey, NATO's Second-Largest Military, Seeks Inclusion in EU Defence Initiatives

As Europe races to strengthen its defences against the Russian threat and uncertainty over the United States’ commitment to the continent’s security, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has made a strategic demand that could alter Europe’s defence architecture. Ankara is requesting involvement in all European Union defence and security structures, including the €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defence funding scheme, ahead of the NATO summit on 7-8 July. The demand does not come from an ordinary country. Turkey possesses the second-largest military in NATO after the United States, whilst also controlling one of the world’s most decisive geopolitical positions. From the Bosporus and Dardanelles straits, Ankara controls the gateway from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean, a route that has become increasingly vital since the Russia-Ukraine war erupted. Speaking before a delegation of parliamentarians from 32 NATO member states in Istanbul on Monday, President Erdogan said Turkey’s contributions to European security have not yet received due recognition. “Turkey’s vital contributions to European security are sometimes ignored,” Erdogan told the delegates, adding that Turkey wants to “participate in all defence and security initiatives” on the continent. He called for the support of all NATO members to ensure Turkey is included in all EU defence and security initiatives. “We expect your support for Turkey’s inclusion in the defence and security initiatives announced by the European Union,” he said. The statement came as the EU rebuilds its military capabilities through the €150 billion Security Action for Europe, or SAFE, programme. The funds are intended to accelerate weapons production, strengthen the defence industry, and reduce Europe’s dependence on suppliers outside the region. For Ankara, this momentum represents both an opportunity and recognition of the major transformation it has undergone over the past two decades. Turkey is no longer merely a contributor of NATO troops but has evolved into one of the world’s most rapidly developing defence industry powers. Beyond having the second-largest military personnel in NATO, Turkey is now a leading global exporter of combat drones through Baykar. The country is also developing the fifth-generation KAAN fighter jet, the Kizilelma unmanned combat aircraft, the TCG Anadolu drone carrier, missiles, air defence systems, armoured vehicles, and various warships that are increasingly sought after by many nations. Another advantage Ankara holds over many NATO members is its operational experience. Turkish combat equipment has been used in various modern conflicts, including Syria, Libya, Nagorno-Karabakh, and Ukraine. This experience means the Turkish defence industry is considered capable of producing weapons systems that are relatively cheaper, faster to manufacture, and battle-tested.