Allies in Arms: Turkish-American Defense Relations

“Allies in Arms: Turkish-American Defense Relations” offers an examination of the strategic evolution of military cooperation between the United States and Turkey, with a particular focus on the aerospace and defense industry. The book serves as an introductory resource for readers interested in the changing contours of the US-Turkey bilateral relationship. It outlines the early cooperation, moments of strain, and Turkey’s drive for greater defense self-sufficiency. It illustrates how US military assistance advanced Turkey’s defense capabilities while creating strategic dependence and vulnerability. The book traces this dynamic through key events, including the 1960s Cyprus crisis, the 1970s US arms embargo, Turkey’s F-16 industrial partnership, its involvement in the F-35 program, and the acquisition of the Russian S-400 system. It moves beyond historical narrative to assess the current and future international defense ties. In proposing solutions, it calls for a revised bilateral framework that reflects Turkey’s growing influence.