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France Leads… New European Decision Deepens Turkey’s Isolation in the Defense Industry
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The EU’s decision to exclude Turkish companies exacerbates Ankara’s isolation in the defense sector, limiting its opportunities to benefit from advanced European investments
In a move reflecting escalating tensions between the European Union and Turkey, the European Commission has decided to exclude Turkish companies from a massive €150 billion defense funding program unless Ankara signs a security agreement with Brussels.
The decision is part of a new EU policy restricting funding to companies within the bloc or in third countries that have formal defense agreements with the European Union.
According to the proposal presented on Wednesday, Turkey will not be able to benefit from EU funding to develop its defense systems unless it reaches an agreement with the EU on security and defense cooperation.
Additionally, Turkish companies will be barred from manufacturing or developing weapons systems under EU funding if they have any technical or sovereign links to a non-EU country.
Implications of the Decision on Turkey:
A blow to Turkey’s defense industry, which has expanded significantly over the past decade, particularly in drones, armored vehicles, and guided missiles.
Reduced opportunities for Turkish-European military cooperation, despite past defense partnerships with countries like Italy and Spain.
Increased Turkish isolation in the European market, potentially pushing Ankara to strengthen defense ties with Russia and China or seek alternatives in the Middle East and Asia.
Complications in Turkey’s NATO relations, given ongoing tensions between Ankara and European capitals over political and military issues.
The decision is seen as a victory for France, which has been leading efforts to reduce Europe’s reliance on non-EU countries in defense, but it faces opposition from countries like Germany and Italy, which maintain strong defense ties with Turkey. However, the proposal still requires majority approval among EU member states, amid divisions over how strictly it should be applied to allied nations like Turkey.
