The United Kingdom has officially designated Turkey as a key partner in its newly released National Security Strategy 2025, highlighting Ankara’s strategic importance to British and NATO security interests.
Unveiled under the title “Security for the British People in a Dangerous World,” the document marks a shift in the UK’s defense policy toward more flexible cooperation with regional powers. It emphasizes Turkey’s pivotal geographic position at the crossroads of the Black Sea, the Middle East, the Caucasus, and North Africa, framing the country as vital to NATO’s southern and eastern flanks.
The strategy underlines growing military and defense industry ties between the two countries. British defense contractor BAE Systems continues to play a central role in Turkey’s development of its indigenous stealth fighter jet, KAAN. The aircraft, which successfully completed its maiden flight in February 2024, is part of Ankara’s broader effort to reduce reliance on foreign defense systems. BAE has supported the program since a 2017 agreement with Turkish Aerospace Industries.
The UK has also voiced strong support for Turkey’s request to acquire 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets—a deal currently under review by Germany. While the UK and Italy back the sale, Berlin initially withdrew its support in April, citing concerns over Turkey’s domestic politics, including the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. However, Germany’s new government, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, is expected to revisit the decision and has signaled interest in improving ties with Turkey.
The foundation for closer UK-Turkey cooperation was laid in November 2023, when the two countries’ defense ministers signed a joint statement of intent to deepen defense collaboration. The agreement includes enhanced cooperation in defense technology, expanded joint training, and coordination on regional security challenges in the Middle East and North Africa.
Speaking to Sky News, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the UK must respond to a more dangerous world by investing in “sovereign resilience”—strengthening national defense while partnering with trusted allies. He named Turkey as one of those critical allies.
The strategy also highlights future investment in cyber defense, emerging technologies, and space capabilities—areas where Turkey is also rapidly advancing.
Despite previous tensions over Turkey’s purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems and military actions in Syria and the eastern Mediterranean, the UK’s engagement with Ankara has remained steady. Analysts view the partnership as a strategic move to bolster NATO cohesion and maintain stability on its southeastern flank.
As global threats evolve, British officials say the relationship with Turkey will continue to be tested—but also offers long-term opportunities for both sides in defense, diplomacy, and regional security.
