Ekhbary News Agency | May 12, 2026
Jerusalem — Turkish military advancements and defense industry self-sufficiency have positioned the nation as a more significant threat to Israel than Iran, according to an analysis published by the Israeli newspaper Maariv. The report, appearing Monday, detailed Turkey's accelerated progress in defense manufacturing and its expanding military capabilities over recent years.
A New Challenge Beyond Iran
The article touched upon what it described as a waning alignment between Washington and Tel Aviv. It noted that Israel has yet to fully recover from the shock of former U.S. President Donald Trump's shift in stance regarding certain security needs along its northern border. Now, it faces a potentially more dangerous challenge than Iran, which the newspaper identified as Turkey. This assessment appears to reflect growing Israeli concern over Turkey's burgeoning military strength.
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Military and Industrial Superiority
Maariv highlighted the size of the Turkish Armed Forces, pointing to its substantial tank inventory, including the main battle tank 'Altay'. It further elaborated on Ankara's establishment of an advanced defense industry ecosystem, now producing most of its military requirements domestically. This is complemented by the development of a multi-layered air defense system with indigenous capabilities. The Israeli paper added that the Turkish Air Force operates approximately 200 aircraft, predominantly F-16 Fighting Falcons, alongside various multi-role attack helicopters.
Naval Power and Operational Experience
The newspaper suggested that the most significant threat in a potential confrontation with Israel could stem from the Turkish Navy, which boasts 16 submarines, frigates, and the amphibious assault ship 'TCG Anadolu'. The article also emphasized the Turkish military's extensive operational experience gained over decades of combating armed groups, in addition to its involvement in military operations in Syria and Iraq. This experience, Maariv noted, has equipped the Turkish forces with expertise in urban warfare and challenging mountainous terrains.
