Introduction

European Union countries have recently begun paying closer attention to the rapid rise of Türkiye’s defense industry. The changing European security landscape following the Russia-Ukraine war, new defense priorities within NATO, and Europe’s increasing military production needs have once again highlighted Türkiye’s strategic importance.

In particular, Turkish-made unmanned aerial vehicles, electronic warfare systems, missile technologies, and air defense projects are attracting significant attention within European defense circles. German security experts and European-based defense analysis institutions believe that Türkiye has achieved a major breakthrough in defense technologies over the past few years.

Baykar-Leonardo Partnership Draws Attention Across Europe

One of the most significant examples of growing defense cooperation between Türkiye and Europe has been the strategic partnership established between Baykar and the Italian defense company Leonardo.

The joint projects developed by the two companies are being described as a potential beginning of a new era in the European defense industry. According to analyses published in the European press, the operational performance of Turkish unmanned aerial systems is being closely examined by European countries.

Experts argue that as European nations search for faster and more cost-effective defense solutions in response to increasing security threats, Türkiye’s defense production capacity is emerging as an important alternative.

German Defense Circles Focus on Yıldırımhan and Tayfun Blok

One of the most discussed topics in Europe has been Türkiye’s long-range missile projects and air defense systems. In particular, the intercontinental ballistic missile project publicly referred to as “Yıldırımhan” and the Tayfun Blok air defense system have begun attracting close attention from German defense circles.

Several Germany-based defense analyses suggest that Europe may eventually need to strengthen its strategic deterrence capabilities, and Türkiye’s advances in missile technologies are viewed as highly noteworthy in this context.

While the Yıldırımhan project’s long-range capability and strategic deterrence potential are being analyzed by European security experts, the Tayfun Blok system is considered an important model within the framework of multi-layered air defense architecture.

Following the Russia-Ukraine war, European countries significantly increased investments in air defense systems, missile shields, and long-range deterrence projects. During this process, Türkiye’s defense systems have become increasingly visible within European strategic discussions.

Eurofighter Process and NATO Cooperation Strengthen Relations

Another important aspect of defense relations between Türkiye and Europe is the ongoing discussions regarding Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets. Negotiations led by the United Kingdom concerning Türkiye’s potential involvement in the Eurofighter program are being viewed as a possible new chapter in European-Turkish defense relations.

At the same time, joint military exercises conducted within NATO have also attracted attention. The operational compatibility demonstrated by Turkish defense systems alongside European military platforms is considered highly significant for NATO integration.

According to experts, Türkiye’s position as NATO’s second-largest military force, its strategic location stretching from the Black Sea to the Middle East, and its rapidly growing defense industry are becoming increasingly critical for Europe.

Pragmatic Approaches Are Gaining Strength in Europe

Although political disagreements regarding Türkiye continue within the European Union, a more pragmatic approach in the defense sector appears to be gaining momentum. Due to Europe’s defense production shortcomings and growing security risks, many European countries are becoming more open to expanding defense cooperation with Türkiye.

Türkiye is becoming increasingly visible in European defense projects, particularly in areas such as unmanned aerial systems, ammunition production, electronic warfare technologies, missile systems, and air defense platforms.

Conclusion

Europe’s growing interest in Türkiye’s defense industry is being interpreted not only as an economic development, but also as a sign of a broader strategic and geopolitical transformation. The Baykar-Leonardo partnership, the Eurofighter process, the Yıldırımhan intercontinental ballistic missile project, and the Tayfun Blok air defense system are all seen as key elements shaping a new era in European-Turkish defense relations.

Experts believe that as Europe’s defense needs continue to grow in the coming years, defense cooperation with Türkiye is expected to deepen further.

Financial Times
Reuters
Carnegie Europe
NATO Reports
Defence News
Army Recognition
Janes Defence Weekly
Daily Sabah
Anadolu Agency
European Defence Analyses