Turkey Military Power Ranking 2025
MPR Rank: 10th
MPR SCORE: 1340
MPR Index: 0.6170 (1.0000 is perfect)
Reverse MPR Index: 0.3631 (0.0000 is perfect)
Z Score: +2.346 (standard deviations above the mean)
Overview
Turkey holds the 10th position in the 2025 Military Power Rankings (MPR), in a near tie with France and the United Kingdom, reflecting its large ground forces, high operational tempo, and growing indigenous defense industry. As a NATO member situated at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and the Caucasus, Turkey plays a critical geopolitical and military role in multiple regional theaters.
Turkey’s armed forces have undergone significant modernization, transitioning from a primarily imported arsenal to a domestically driven production model that now supplies UAVs, armored vehicles, artillery, and precision-guided munitions. While political strains have impacted some defense partnerships, Turkey's doctrine remains focused on border defense, counterterrorism, and power projection across neighboring regions.
Strengths: Regional Power Projection and Indigenous Defense Industry
1. Large and Combat-Tested Ground Forces
One of the largest standing armies in NATO, with over 350,000 active personnel
Operates Leopard 2A4 and M60T tanks, along with domestically built Altay MBTs (in rollout)
Extensive experience in cross-border operations, urban warfare, and mountain combat
Maintains commando brigades and airmobile units highly active in counterterror operations
2. World-Class Drone and Precision Strike Capabilities
Developer of globally recognized drones: Bayraktar TB2, Akıncı, and Anka-S
Proven operational use in Syria, Libya, Nagorno-Karabakh, and Ukraine
Combines drone strikes with real-time ISR, electronic warfare, and loitering munitions
Drone exports boost Turkey’s influence across Africa, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe
3. Navy with Blue-Water Ambitions
Launch of TCG Anadolu, a multi-role amphibious assault ship (drone carrier configuration)
Indigenous Ada-class corvettes and I-class frigates with advanced sonar and missile systems
Expanding submarine fleet, including Type 214TN AIP subs and future local builds
Focused on securing Eastern Mediterranean, Aegean Sea, and Libya maritime corridor
4. Modernizing Air and Missile Forces
Operates F-16C/D fleet undergoing upgrades; aims to field TF-X (KAAN) 5th-gen fighter by 2030
Develops SIPER, Hisar-A/O air defense systems as alternatives to foreign systems
Despite F-35 exclusion, focuses on sovereign missile production and long-range strike drones
Integrating EW, satellite guidance, and AI into airstrike platforms
5. Self-Reliant Defense Industry and Global Exports
Major firms include Baykar, ASELSAN, ROKETSAN, TAI, and FNSS
Exports include APCs, MLRS, anti-tank missiles, radars, and UAVs
Defense exports have surpassed $5 billion annually, enhancing economic and strategic leverage
Co-development projects with Pakistan, Qatar, Azerbaijan, and other non-NATO partners
Why Turkey Is Ranked 10th
1. High Operational Tempo and Combat Experience
Turkey has sustained one of the highest levels of military activity among NATO states over the past two decades:
Multiple cross-border operations into Syria and Iraq
High-readiness forces deployed in Libya, Azerbaijan, and Qatar
Frequent joint drills in Aegean, Mediterranean, and Black Sea regions
Its forces are trained, tested, and rapidly deployable across multiple terrain types, giving it an advantage over more static militaries.
2. Lack of Strategic Bombers and Nuclear Deterrent
Turkey does not operate:
Strategic bombers
Intercontinental-range missiles
Nuclear weapons (although it hosts U.S. B61 bombs under NATO)
This limits long-range global strike capability and makes Turkey dependent on NATO's collective deterrence umbrella.
3. Political Strains and Arms Embargoes
Tensions with the U.S., France, and other NATO allies have:
Led to removal from the F-35 program
Triggered arms restrictions from European suppliers
Complicated access to high-end components and systems
Turkey has responded with industrial substitution, but the friction affects joint interoperability and tech parity.
Military Strength and Force Projection
Active Military Personnel: 400,000 (IISS 2023)
Reserve Personnel: 300,000 (SIPRI 2023)
Paramilitary Forces: 150,000 (CIA World Factbook)
Turkey maintains one of the largest standing armies in NATO, with a large pool of reserves and paramilitary forces. The country’s military is well-equipped for defensive operations and force projection across its borders into Syria and Iraq, and is capable of conducting operations independently or in collaboration with NATO.
Ground Forces
Main Battle Tanks (MBTs): 2,600+ (SIPRI 2023, IISS 2023)
Armored Fighting Vehicles (AFVs): 9,000+ (SIPRI 2023)
Artillery Pieces (Towed and Self-Propelled): 1,200+ (Jane’s Defence 2023)
Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS): 400+ (IISS 2023)
Turkey’s ground forces are one of the largest in NATO. Its Altay MBT program aims to modernize its tank fleet, while its indigenous T-155 Fırtına self-propelled howitzers provide advanced firepower. The Turkish Land Forces are also known for their asymmetric warfare capabilities, honed through decades of counterterrorism operations.
Air Force
Combat Aircraft: 270+ (IISS 2023, SIPRI 2023)
Attack Helicopters: 100+ (Jane’s Defence 2023)
Transport Aircraft: 50+ (IISS 2023)
Turkey’s air force is one of the most formidable in the region, although it faces challenges due to the suspension of F-35 orders following Turkey’s purchase of the S-400 air defense system from Russia. However, Turkey continues to modernize its fleet with F-16s and is focusing on developing its own TF-X fighter jet.
Aircraft Breakdown:
F-16 Fighting Falcon (Multirole Fighter): 250+ (IISS 2023)
F-4 Phantom II (Ground Attack): 20+ (Jane’s Defence 2023)
Bayraktar Akıncı (Combat Drone): 50+ (operational)
C-130 Hercules (Transport): 10+ (IISS 2023)
Naval Forces
Warships: 36 major combat vessels (Jane’s Defence 2023)
Submarines: 12 (SIPRI 2023)
Aircraft Carriers: 1 (planned)
Frigates and Destroyers: 16+ (Jane’s Defence 2023)
Turkey’s naval forces are rapidly modernizing, particularly through the MİLGEM project, which aims to build a fleet of indigenous corvettes and frigates. Turkey is also investing in its blue-water capabilities, with the upcoming TCG Anadolu amphibious assault ship expected to be the centerpiece of its power projection in the Mediterranean.
Naval Vessel Breakdown:
MİLGEM Corvettes: 4+ (Jane’s Defence 2023)
Type 214 Submarines (Reis-class): 6 (SIPRI 2023)
Gabya-Class Frigates: 8 (Jane’s Defence 2023)
Barbaros-Class Frigates: 4 (IISS 2023)
Missile Inventory
Turkey has an expanding missile inventory, focused on precision strike, anti-aircraft capabilities, and tactical missile systems.
Short-Range Ballistic Missiles (SRBMs)
Bora Tactical Ballistic Missile
Range: 280 km
Warhead: Conventional
Quantity: Growing, deployed (operational)
Yıldırım Tactical Ballistic Missile
Range: 150 km
Warhead: Conventional
Quantity: Widely deployed
Cruise Missiles
SOM (Stand-Off Missile)
Range: 250+ km
Warhead: Conventional
Quantity: Widely deployed (air-launched by F-16s)
Nuclear and Strategic Deterrence
Although Turkey does not possess nuclear weapons, it remains under NATO’s nuclear umbrella and hosts U.S. tactical nuclear weapons as part of NATO’s nuclear sharing agreement. Turkey’s strategic doctrine focuses on conventional deterrence, particularly through its missile capabilities and defense partnerships with NATO.
Logistics and Supply Chain Resilience
Turkey has a rapidly expanding defense industry, with companies like ASELSAN, TAI, and Roketsan leading the development of indigenous aerospace, land systems, and missiles. The “Made in Turkey” initiative aims to reduce dependence on foreign military equipment, making Turkey increasingly self-sufficient in key areas such as drones, armored vehicles, and missile systems.
Command, Control, and Leadership
Turkey’s command structure is fully integrated with NATO, providing it with access to advanced intelligence and operational capabilities. Turkey is also increasingly developing network-centric warfare capabilities, with a focus on C4ISR systems. The Turkish General Staff emphasizes joint operations, particularly in counterterrorism and cross-border operations.
Offensive and Defensive Capabilities
Turkey’s military focuses on both offensive operations, such as cross-border incursions into Syria and Iraq, and defensive capabilities, particularly along its southern borders. Turkey’s advanced drone warfare capabilities, led by the Bayraktar TB2, have made it a leader in asymmetric warfare and precision strikes. Turkey is also developing advanced air defense systems through collaborations with Russia and European partners.
Strategic Partnerships and Alliances
Turkey’s membership in NATO is the cornerstone of its military strategy, providing access to joint training, advanced technologies, and nuclear deterrence. However, Turkey is also forging independent military ties with countries like Russia (for the S-400 missile defense system) and Qatar, while maintaining strong defense relations with Pakistan.
Military History & Combat Experience
Turkey’s military tradition is rooted in the legacy of the Ottoman Empire, one of history’s most powerful and enduring military states. Its transformation into a modern republic led to the establishment of a new national military that would defend its sovereignty through regional wars, global alliances, and persistent conflict. The Turkish Armed Forces today reflect centuries of combat experience—ranging from imperial conquest to 21st-century drone warfare.
Ottoman Military Legacy (14th–20th Century):
The Ottoman Empire fielded one of the most formidable and organized militaries in pre-modern history. Its Janissary corps, elite infantry units recruited through devshirme, were revolutionary in structure and battlefield discipline. Ottoman forces conquered vast territories across Southeastern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, famously laying siege to Vienna in 1529 and again in 1683. The empire fought prolonged wars against Austria, Persia, Russia, and internal rebellions. By the 19th century, military decline set in due to technological stagnation, logistical strain, and rising European pressure, culminating in defeats during the Crimean War, Balkan Wars, and Italo-Turkish War. The final Ottoman campaigns in World War I saw heavy losses against the British in Mesopotamia, Arabs in the Hijaz, and Russians in the Caucasus, although notable successes like Gallipoli demonstrated tactical resilience.
War of Independence and Republic Formation (1919–1923):
Following defeat and occupation in World War I, Turkish nationalists led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk rejected the Treaty of Sèvres and launched the Turkish War of Independence. Fighting against Greek, Armenian, French, and British-supported forces, Turkish irregulars and regulars secured victories in Sakarya and Dumlupınar, reclaiming Anatolia. The war led to the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, and the military became a core institution in both national identity and political life.
Kurdish Uprisings and Internal Security (1925–1938):
The early Republic faced multiple Kurdish rebellions, most notably the Sheikh Said Rebellion (1925) and Dersim Rebellion (1937–38). These insurgencies were crushed through a combination of airpower, infantry, and mass displacements, establishing firm state control over eastern Anatolia. These campaigns laid the foundations for Turkey’s enduring internal security doctrine focused on rapid reaction and overwhelming force.
World War II Neutrality and Militarization (1939–1945):
Although Turkey remained neutral for most of World War II, it maintained one of the largest standing armies in Europe during the conflict, mobilizing nearly one million men. The military was deployed primarily along Eastern Thrace and the Soviet frontier, prepared for a possible Axis or Allied invasion. Turkey only entered the war symbolically in 1945, but the conflict highlighted the need for modernization and global alignment.
Korean War and NATO Integration (1950–1952):
Turkey sent a combat brigade to Korea under UN command, where it saw heavy fighting at Kunu-ri and Waegwan, earning praise for bravery and professionalism. The experience solidified Turkey’s role as a committed Western partner and led to its accession into NATO in 1952. The war marked the transition from a post-Ottoman regional power to a global alliance participant.
Cyprus Intervention and Regional Operations (1974):
In response to a Greek-backed coup in Cyprus, Turkey launched a two-phase military intervention—Operation Atilla—resulting in the occupation of the northern third of the island. The intervention featured amphibious landings, airborne troops, and mechanized armor, and continues to define Turkey’s military presence abroad. The success demonstrated Turkey’s ability to independently conduct complex joint operations.
PKK Insurgency and Cross-Border Warfare (1984–Present):
Turkey has been engaged in a multi-decade counterinsurgency campaign against the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) since 1984. Ground forces, special operations units, and airpower have been used in Southeastern Anatolia, northern Iraq, and later northern Syria. These operations have shaped Turkey’s doctrine in mountain warfare, SOF integration, and long-duration deployments, with significant domestic and geopolitical consequences.
Modern Interventions: Syria, Libya, and Nagorno-Karabakh (2016–2020):
Turkey launched major cross-border operations in Syria, including Euphrates Shield, Olive Branch, and Peace Spring, involving joint armored-infantry advances, drone strikes, and sustained occupation zones. In Libya, Turkey intervened in support of the GNA, employing drones and naval assets to reverse battlefield outcomes. In Nagorno-Karabakh, Turkish support and drones helped Azerbaijan decisively defeat Armenian forces in 2020, highlighting Ankara’s role as a regional kingmaker.
Mediterranean and Naval Confrontations (2018–Present):
Turkey has clashed with Greece, Cyprus, and France over maritime rights in the Eastern Mediterranean, leading to naval standoffs and increased blue-water naval investment. These confrontations have reoriented Turkey’s navy toward power projection, energy security, and geostrategic deterrence at sea.
Turkey’s military history spans imperial conquest, national resistance, NATO realignment, and regional expeditionary warfare. Its armed forces are shaped by over six centuries of campaign experience, continuous adaptation to geography, and a modern focus on indigenous capability, multi-domain integration, and combat-tested versatility. Today, Turkey fields one of the most experienced and regionally capable militaries in the world.
General Information
Demographics and Geography
Population: ~86.1 million (2024 est.)
Population Available for Military Service: ~35.2 million (males and females aged 18–49)
Geographic Area: 783,562 km²
Land Boundaries: 2,753 km
Bordering Countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan (Nakhchivan), Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Iran, Iraq, Syria
Coastline: 7,200 km
Climate: Temperate; hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters; more extreme in interior
Terrain: High central plateau, narrow coastal plains, rugged mountains
Natural Resources: Coal, iron ore, copper, chromium, antimony, mercury, gold, barite, borate, arable land, hydropower
Proven Oil Reserves: ~320 million barrels
Proven Natural Gas Reserves: ~20 billion cubic meters
Economic Indicators
Defense Budget (2025): ~$18.5 billion USD
Defense Budget as % of GDP: ~1.7%
GDP (PPP): ~$3.3 trillion USD
GDP per Capita (PPP): ~$38,500
External Debt: ~$475 billion USD
Military Expenditure Trend (last 5 years): Increasing with emphasis on self-reliance and regional power projection
Military Infrastructure and Readiness
Military Service Obligation: Mandatory; reduced length with payment option for exemption or short service
Primary Defense Focus: Regional dominance, border security, counterinsurgency, and power projection into MENA and Caucasus
Military Industry Base: Expanding rapidly; led by Aselsan, Roketsan, TAI, STM, and Havelsan
Cyber/Electronic Warfare Capability: Developing; includes cyber units within Turkish Armed Forces and MIT coordination
Nuclear Warhead Inventory: None (hosts ~50 U.S. B61 bombs at Incirlik Air Base under NATO nuclear sharing)
Major Military Districts / Commands: Aegean, Eastern, Western, and Mediterranean Commands under the General Staff
Missile Inventory Highlights: Bora ballistic missiles, Atmaca cruise missiles, HISAR air defense systems, SOM-J
Reservist Call-up Readiness / Timeline: Tiered system; short mobilization time for recent conscripts and ex-active duty personnel
Reservist Force Size: Estimated ~400,000–500,000 trained reservists
Space, Intelligence, and Strategic Infrastructure
Space or Satellite Programs: Operated by Turkish Space Agency and TUBITAK; includes military satellites (Gokturk-1/2)
Military Satellite Inventory: Several reconnaissance and communications satellites in operation
Intelligence Infrastructure: National Intelligence Organization (MIT), military intelligence divisions, cyber surveillance assets
Intelligence Sharing Partnerships: Cooperation with NATO, Azerbaijan, Qatar, and selective links with Russia and Pakistan
Airports (Total): ~98 (civilian and military)
Major Military Airports: Akinci AB, Eskisehir, Konya, Diyarbakir, Incirlik AB
Naval Power and Maritime Logistics
Merchant Marine Fleet: ~600 vessels
Major Ports: Istanbul, Izmir, Mersin, Iskenderun
Naval Infrastructure: Strong; includes Gölcük Naval Shipyard, naval bases on Aegean and Mediterranean coasts
Naval Replenishment Capability: Developing; includes auxiliary ships for regional blue-water projection
Domestic Mobility and Infrastructure
Railway Network: ~13,000 km
Roadways: ~450,000 km
Energy and Fuel Logistics
Oil Production: ~85,000 barrels per day
Energy Imports: Highly reliant on imported gas and oil (primarily from Russia, Iran, and Azerbaijan)
Strategic Petroleum Reserves: ~90–100 million barrels
Defense Production and Strategic Forces
Domestic Defense Production: Produces UAVs (Bayraktar TB2/Akinci), APCs, missiles, ships, and helicopters; growing self-sufficiency
Military Installations (Domestic): Dozens of airbases, land force command centers, naval stations, and special forces compounds
Military Installations (Overseas): Bases in Northern Cyprus, Somalia, Qatar, Libya, and training presence in Azerbaijan
Foreign Military Personnel Presence: Hosts U.S. forces at Incirlik; NATO early-warning and radar facilities
Defense Alliances: NATO member; bilateral military ties with Azerbaijan, Qatar, Pakistan, and Ukraine
Strategic Airlift Capability: Operates A400M, C-130, CN-235 transport aircraft
Wartime Industrial Surge Capacity: Moderate to high; civilian industry can be converted under national mobilization law
Research and Industry Support
Defense R&D Investment: Significant and growing; emphasis on UAVs, missiles, AI, and electronic warfare
Key Wartime Industries Beyond Defense: Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), Turkish Airlines (logistics), TUPRAS (refining), BMC (vehicles), ASELSAN (electronics)
Political and Administrative Structure
Capital: Ankara
Founding Date: October 29, 1923 (proclamation of the Republic)
System of Government: Unitary presidential republic
