Northern Cyprus
Military Power Ranking 2025
MPR Rank: 152nd
MPR SCORE: 184
MPR Index: 0.0364 (1.0000 is perfect)
Reverse MPR Index: 0.9132 (0.0000 is perfect)
Z Score: -0.702 (standard deviations above the mean)
Overview
Northern Cyprus ranks 152nd in the 2025 Military Power Rankings. Officially known as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), it is recognized only by Turkey and is considered by the international community to be occupied territory of the Republic of Cyprus. As such, Northern Cyprus does not maintain a large independent military, and its defense is entirely reliant on Turkey, which stations thousands of troops, armor, and support assets in the north of the island under the Turkish Cypriot Security Forces Command.
The local security forces are small, focused on territorial defense, internal control, and military coordination with Turkish command. However, the presence of Turkish mechanized brigades, air defense units, and combat support infrastructure provides Northern Cyprus with a significant level of deterrence, particularly against any attempt by the Republic of Cyprus to alter the status quo militarily. The defense doctrine is completely integrated with Ankara, and reflects Turkey’s strategic interests in the Eastern Mediterranean, including maritime control, energy exploration, and regional balance of power.
Military Strengths
Northern Cyprus’s military power lies in its external backing by Turkey, fortified military installations, and shared Eastern Mediterranean strategic doctrine.
1. Turkish Military Garrison and Command Oversight
Turkey maintains approximately 30,000–35,000 troops on the island, including mechanized infantry, armored units, artillery, special forces, and combat engineers.
The Turkish Armed Forces operate under joint command structures in cooperation with local security forces.
2. Fortified Military Zone
Northern Cyprus features military buffer zones, fixed artillery positions, and border defenses along the Green Line, providing a formidable defense posture.
Turkish troops are stationed in Lefkoşa (Nicosia), Girne, and other forward bases with airlift and logistics readiness.
3. Naval and Air Coverage via Turkey
Turkish naval and air forces based in southern Turkey (e.g., Adana, Mersin) provide rapid response capability, airspace protection, and naval deterrence in the event of regional escalation.
4. Integrated Defense Doctrine with Ankara
Northern Cyprus’s military strategy is tied directly to Turkey’s Eastern Mediterranean military policy, including operations related to energy rights, Greek-Turkish maritime disputes, and counter-intervention scenarios.
Why Northern Cyprus Is Still Ranked 152nd
No Sovereign Control Over Military Policy
Defense and foreign policy are governed by Turkey, and the local government has no independent force projection or strategic decision-making authority.Minimal Local Military Capabilities
The Turkish Cypriot Security Forces (GKK) are small, lightly equipped, and reliant on Turkish training, logistics, and command for all major operations.Lack of International Recognition or Alliances
The TRNC is recognized only by Turkey, and is excluded from international defense partnerships, UN participation, and arms procurement frameworks.Geopolitical Isolation
The region is under political and economic embargoes, limiting the development of autonomous defense industries or modernization outside of Turkish assistance.
Conclusion
Northern Cyprus functions as a military protectorate of Turkey, serving as a forward operating base for Ankara’s strategic posture in the Eastern Mediterranean. While the local armed forces are small and defensive in nature, the presence of Turkey’s conventional military assets gives the territory credible deterrence power. Its low MPR ranking reflects the lack of sovereign force capability, while acknowledging the significant combat strength derived from Turkish integration.
Military Strength and Force Projection
Active Military Personnel (local): 4,000
Turkish Forces Deployed: 30,000+
Paramilitary Forces: 1,500 (police, border forces)
Army Personnel: 3,500
Navy Personnel: 200
Air Force Personnel: 300
Ground Forces (Local + Turkish Units Combined)
Main Battle Tanks (MBTs): 200+ (M60T, M48)
Armored Fighting Vehicles (AFVs): 500+
Artillery Pieces (Towed & Self-Propelled): 150+
Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS): 30+
Air Force
Combat Aircraft (Turkish deployment only): 12+
Attack Helicopters: 6+
Transport Aircraft: 6+
Training Aircraft: 4+
Aircraft Breakdown:
Turkish F-16s based in mainland Turkey (rotational presence)
T129 ATAK and UH-1 Helicopters deployed locally
Light aircraft for reconnaissance and liaison duties
Naval Forces
Warships (local): 3+ patrol boats
Turkish Naval Support: Yes
Submarines: 0 (none based locally)
Frigates/Corvettes: 0 (Turkish Navy offshore presence)
Naval Vessel Breakdown:
Turkish patrol boats operating from Kyrenia
Coastal forces focused on EEZ enforcement and surveillance
Missile Capabilities
Northern Cyprus does not possess indigenous missile systems. However, Turkey has stationed short-range air defense systems, and there are coastal radars and surveillance systems in place. Turkey’s broader missile umbrella extends over the island for strategic coverage.
Strategic Partnerships
Northern Cyprus is entirely dependent on Turkey for defense, funding, and logistics. Turkish troops, intelligence, and command structures are deeply embedded in the security apparatus. No other country recognizes or supports the military presence in the region, and the UN maintains a buffer zone (Green Line) to prevent direct confrontation with the Republic of Cyprus.
Military History & Combat Experience
Northern Cyprus’s military history is shaped entirely by the 1974 Turkish military intervention, the ensuing partition of Cyprus, and the ongoing military stalemate.
1974 Turkish Invasion of Cyprus (Operation Atilla):
Triggered by a Greek-backed coup in Cyprus, Turkey launched a full-scale military invasion, citing its rights as a guarantor power under the 1960 Treaty of Guarantee. The operation included amphibious landings, airborne assaults, and armored thrusts, resulting in the occupation of roughly 37% of the island.
The campaign ended in a ceasefire and the establishment of the Green Line, with UN peacekeepers maintaining a buffer between north and south to this day.Post-1974 Fortification and Military Integration:
Turkey rapidly fortified Northern Cyprus with permanent bases, armored brigades, and air support links. The GKK (Turkish Cypriot Security Forces) were formed as a local auxiliary but remain under Turkish operational control.Stalemate and Deterrence Era (1980s–Present):
While no full-scale conflict has occurred since 1974, the situation remains militarily frozen, with ongoing troop deployments, live-fire exercises, and occasional border provocations. The region remains under high alert, especially during periods of Greek-Turkish tension.Eastern Mediterranean Naval Tensions (2018–Present):
Turkish claims over energy exploration rights near Cyprus have led to military posturing and joint Turkish-Northern Cypriot drills, especially near disputed gas fields. These exercises reflect the region’s increasing role in naval deterrence and strategic signaling.
Northern Cyprus has not engaged in combat since 1974 but remains one of the most militarized and fortified zones in Europe. Its experience in intervention warfare, territorial defense, and operational readiness under Turkish control defines its strategic relevance today.
General Information
Demographics and Geography
Population: ~390,000 (2024 est.)
Population Available for Military Service: ~140,000
Geographic Area: ~3,355 km²
Land Boundaries: ~179 km (with Republic of Cyprus, along UN buffer zone)
Bordering Countries: Republic of Cyprus (internationally recognized)
Coastline: ~400 km
Climate: Mediterranean; hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters
Terrain: Coastal plains, central Mesarya basin, Kyrenia mountain range
Natural Resources: Gypsum, copper, arable land, limited offshore gas potential
Proven Oil Reserves: None
Proven Natural Gas Reserves: Possible offshore reserves (disputed and unexplored)
Economic Indicators
Defense Budget (2025): ~$60 million USD (excluding Turkish military presence)
Defense Budget as % of GDP: ~3.0%
GDP (PPP): ~$6 billion USD
GDP per Capita (PPP): ~$15,400
External Debt: ~$800 million USD
Military Expenditure Trend (last 5 years): Stable; Turkish subsidies and troop presence reduce domestic burden
Military Infrastructure and Readiness
Military Service Obligation: Mandatory (12 months for males)
Primary Defense Focus: Deterrence against Republic of Cyprus; internal stability
Military Industry Base: None; relies entirely on Turkish arms and logistics
Cyber/Electronic Warfare Capability: Minimal
Nuclear Warhead Inventory: None (non-nuclear state)
Major Military Districts / Commands: Turkish Cypriot Security Forces Command (under civilian control), alongside Turkish mainland forces
Missile Inventory Highlights: Light infantry-based systems, MANPADS, ATGMs
Reservist Call-up Readiness / Timeline: Moderate; 30–45 days
Reservist Force Size: ~10,000
Space, Intelligence, and Strategic Infrastructure
Space or Satellite Programs: None
Military Satellite Inventory: None
Intelligence Infrastructure: Local security forces coordinated with Turkish intelligence (MIT)
Intelligence Sharing Partnerships: Turkey
Airports (Total): 1 main international (Ercan), several airstrips
Major Military Airports: Ercan International Airport (dual-use)
Naval Power and Maritime Logistics
Merchant Marine Fleet: Very limited
Major Ports: Famagusta, Kyrenia
Naval Infrastructure: Minimal; coastal patrol capability under Turkish support
Naval Replenishment Capability: Turkish Navy support
Domestic Mobility and Infrastructure
Railway Network: None
Roadways: ~7,000 km
Energy and Fuel Logistics
Oil Production: None
Energy Imports: Dependent on fuel imports from Turkey
Strategic Petroleum Reserves: Minimal
Defense Production and Strategic Forces
Domestic Defense Production: None
Military Installations (Domestic): Nicosia, Famagusta, Kyrenia
Military Installations (Overseas): None
Foreign Military Personnel Presence: ~30,000 Turkish troops
Defense Alliances: Strategic alignment with Turkey (only state recognizing Northern Cyprus)
Strategic Airlift Capability: Limited; reliant on Turkish military transport
Wartime Industrial Surge Capacity: None
Research and Industry Support
Defense R&D Investment: None
Key Wartime Industries Beyond Defense: Construction, food logistics, small-scale manufacturing
Political and Administrative Structure
Capital: North Nicosia
Founding Date: November 15, 1983 (unilateral declaration of independence)
System of Government: Semi-presidential republic (recognized only by Turkey)
