Inside Turkey’s military machine: Tanks, drones and regional power

With 481,000 active-duty troops, over 2,280 tanks, and 1,100 aircraft, Turkey maintains one of the most formidable military forces within NATO. According to 2026 Global Firepower data, the country also commands 380,000 reservists and 150,000 paramilitary personnel. Turkey's strategic location between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, coupled with its control over the Bosporus and Dardanelles straits, enhances its regional influence. In recent years, Ankara has invested heavily to reduce reliance on foreign weaponry, shifting toward domestic production. Data from Anadolu Agency indicates that the number of companies in Turkey's defense sector has grown from 56 in 2002 to over 4,500 today. Drones manufactured by Baykar, particularly the Bayraktar series, have become central to Turkey's export and diplomatic strategy. However, tensions persist regarding Turkey's acquisition of the Russian S-400 system and its subsequent removal from the F-35 fighter jet program. Israel, citing concerns over its qualitative military edge, continues to view Turkey's expanding military capabilities as a significant strategic consideration.