ILTurkey announced plans to increase defense spending by 229% over three years as part of its Medium-Term Program (MTP) for 2027-2029. The announcement was made by Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz, who emphasized the development of domestic military technology and production capabilities. The defense budget increase is the highest among seven priority areas in the MTP, surpassing increases in social housing, mining exploration, and other sectors. The funding will support projects like the TF-KAAN fighter jet, KIZILELMA unmanned aircraft, and the ALTAY tank. Turkey's current military spending of $30 billion in 2025 makes it the 18th-largest military spender globally, according to SIPRI. Yilmaz linked the increased spending to regional tensions, particularly the war with Iran, and rising geopolitical and economic uncertainties.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the defense spending increase as a strategic decision by Turkish officials without overtly criticizing or praising the move. It provides factual information about the planned budget increase, references official data from SIPRI, and includes quotes from Turkish officials without
