Turkey is asking to join important European defense talks. At the same time, it tested its own advanced combat drone. These two actions show Turkey wants more influence in European security and to depend less on others.
Turkey's Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, spoke about this idea recently. He said Europe should build its own strong defense, not just rely on the United States. He suggested that big countries, including Turkey, the UK, France, Germany, and Italy, should lead this project. Fidan believes Turkey is a necessary partner because of its large military and important location.
This week, Turkey showed its new military technology. A Turkish-made stealth drone called Kizilelma successfully shot down a target aircraft during a test. The drone used a Turkish missile and worked together with Turkish fighter jets. This shows Turkey can develop complex weapons systems on its own.
Experts say these events are connected. Turkey's new weapons make it a stronger country and a more attractive partner for other nations. Minister Fidan's comments place this military power in a bigger plan for Europe's future security.
Turkey's actions have many effects. Inside NATO, it is complicated because Turkey also talks with Russia. Fidan said Turkey continues its dialogue with Russia and acts when its interests are threatened. Neighboring countries like Greece are watching Turkey's drone progress closely and are changing their own defense plans because of it.
Turkey's message is clear: it has the technology and the political desire to help decide Europe's defense future. It is not yet clear if other European countries will agree, but Turkey has shown it is a powerful player.