Türkiye: The Emerging Pillar of Europe's Defense Autonomy

Türkiye appears as "a potential guarantor of Europe's defense autonomy," according to a recent article published in the Greek daily Kathimerini.

This assertion, made by expert Stavros Ioannidis, highlights Ankara's growing influence on global security dynamics. The claim, which would have been unthinkable only a few years ago, now reflects an undeniable shift in European geopolitics and security priorities. As the United States signals a reduction in its military footprint on the continent, Türkiye finds itself in a strategic position to assume a leading role in NATO and European security architecture.

Türkiye’s Rising Role in European Security

Ioannidis' analysis underscores the intensified negotiations between Türkiye and major European powers concerning the future of European security. He notes that while this development presents an opportunity for Türkiye to "return to European living rooms," it simultaneously challenges Greek strategic interests. Greece, whose defense industry lags behind in innovation and production, finds itself increasingly reliant on defense procurements from abroad.

This reality has sparked concerns in Athens, particularly regarding Türkiye’s latest military acquisitions and defense collaborations. Greece has expressed strong opposition to certain defense deals, such as Ankara's planned supply of Meteor missiles. Yet, despite Greek apprehensions, Türkiye's military expansion is reshaping the European defense market, making its participation in regional security indispensable.

The Turkish Defense Industry: A Force to Reckon With

Türkiye's growing military influence is deeply intertwined with the remarkable evolution of its defense industry. Once heavily dependent on foreign arms, Türkiye has successfully developed a self-sufficient military-industrial complex. Today, Turkish defense companies export cutting-edge defense products to 185 countries, with defense exports soaring to a record $7.2 billion in 2024—a nearly 30% annual increase.

At the forefront of this transformation is the Bayraktar TB2 drone, which has revolutionized modern warfare and garnered international demand. The company's expansion into European markets, including the acquisition of Italy’s Piaggio Aerospace, solidifies Türkiye’s position as a major player in global defense. Additionally, Türkiye's defense sector has fostered close cooperation with European manufacturers, particularly Italy and Spain, demonstrating its capacity to integrate seamlessly with European defense frameworks.

Strategic Collaborations and Diplomatic Leverage

Türkiye’s participation in European defense goes beyond industrial prowess; it also extends to strategic diplomacy. Ioannidis highlights Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan's presence at the emergency Ukraine summit convened by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, a meeting notably absent of Greek officials. This illustrates how Türkiye is actively engaged in shaping Europe's security future while Greece remains on the periphery.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has also reinforced Türkiye’s pivotal role in European security, calling on EU leaders to recognize Ankara's contributions. "To be clear, you cannot consider securing Europe without Türkiye," he recently stated to European ambassadors in Ankara. His remarks reflect a broader diplomatic push for deeper EU-Türkiye engagement, particularly in the context of defense and security cooperation.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite its growing defense influence, Türkiye faces challenges on the geopolitical front. Its historical tensions with Greece, stemming from disputes over the Aegean Sea, energy resources, and the Cyprus issue, continue to shape regional dynamics. However, recent efforts to normalize relations between Ankara and Athens signal a potential shift towards pragmatic engagement.

As European nations grapple with the realities of an evolving security landscape, Türkiye emerges not only as a key military power but also as a stabilizing force in NATO and European defense policy. With cutting-edge technology, strategic alliances, and diplomatic assertiveness, Türkiye has positioned itself as an indispensable partner in shaping Europe’s defense autonomy.

TCE Conclusion

Türkiye's ascension as a guarantor of Europe's defense autonomy is no longer a theoretical possibility but a strategic necessity. The international community must recognize Ankara’s indispensable role in maintaining regional stability and reinforcing Europe's security architecture. For too long, European policymakers have underestimated Türkiye’s contributions. Moving forward, an inclusive approach that integrates Türkiye into European defense frameworks will benefit not only Ankara but also the broader European security landscape.

As geopolitical challenges mount, the future of European defense increasingly hinges on cooperation with Türkiye. The time has come for Europe to acknowledge this reality and foster deeper engagement with a nation that has demonstrated both the capability and the will to shape the continent’s security future.

References

• Ioannidis, Stavros. "Türkiye appears as a potential guarantor of Europe's defense autonomy." Kathimerini, March 2025.

• Daily Sabah. "Türkiye's Defense Industry Breaks Records with $7.2 Billion in Exports." March 2025.

• Presidential Speech by Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to European Ambassadors, Ankara, 2025.