Abstract
Türkiye finds itself in a geopolitical environment that requires simultaneous resistance to both symmetric and asymmetric threats to ensure national security. The strengthening of Türkiye's pivotal role in regional and global security, in response to unfolding developments, is closely tied to the increase in military deterrence. Notably, Türkiye has made significant strides in this regard. This study aimed to analyze the fundamental dynamics of Türkiye's rising military deterrence in recent years within the methodological guidance of deterrence theory. The first section of the study conducted a conceptual analysis of deterrence, both as a theory and a military strategy. It evaluated the effectiveness of deterrence in the new security environment, encompassing factors such as terrorism, failed states, and ethnic/sectarian conflicts. In the second section, the dynamics of Türkiye's increasing military deterrence between 2016 and 2023 were assessed. This included an examination of the role of military reforms undertaken by Türkiye after the attempted coup on July 15, the steps taken towards indigenization in high-tech defense industry systems, the establishment of new military bases for enhancing defense capabilities and cooperation, and successful military operations executed by Türkiye to protect its legitimate rights and interests amid emerging regional security threats. The study concluded that achieving effective deterrence required the coordination of processes from identifying the necessary steps for functional deterrence to developing national defense industry products essential for effective deterrence. The findings are expected to serve as a valuable resource for future studies on the subject.
