Arms transition: Germany approves arms exports to Turkey!

Arms transition: Germany approves arms exports to Turkey!

The renewed increase in arms exports from Germany to Turkey is currently causing a stir. After years of reluctance, the federal government increasingly issued permits for the export of military equipment in 2023. By October 13th, 69 permits with a total value of 103 million euros had already been recorded, which represents a significant increase. This is the first triple-digit million increase since 2011, indicating a significant growing relationship.

The permits also include war weapons, which are priced at 840,000 euros. Particularly noteworthy is the approval that allows the company thyssenkrupp Marine Systems to export 28 Seahake torpedoes and 101 guided missiles. This means that a number of armaments that are important for military operations will be sold to Turkey.

The role of political leadership

Chancellor Olaf Scholz will meet Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul in the afternoon. Their talks are expected to cover the topic of arms exports, as Erdogan had already expressed interest in increased military cooperation during his last visit to Berlin. He explained that a “decisive” step by Germany was necessary to enable the export of military equipment.

Another item on the agenda is the potential purchase of 40 Eurofighter fighter jets, which Germany is involved in producing. These purchases require the approval of the federal government, which is still pending. At a recent EU summit, Scholz expressed his willingness to do so if Great Britain negotiates with Turkey on this matter.

A flashback to the previous story shows that Germany pursued a much looser export policy until the failed military coup in Turkey in 2016. At that time, arms exports were massive, including the supply of submarine components. However, after the coup and the invasion of Syria, export approval was significantly restricted, so that only 11.1 million euros were approved in 2021, and in 2022 it was only 4.5 million euros. This represents a dramatic turnaround with current developments.

BSW MP Sevim Dagdelen expressed concern about the renewed relaxation of arms export permits. She sees this as a “moral and political declaration of bankruptcy” by the traffic light government. The concern relates to the geopolitical implications and responsibilities that come with exporting military equipment to conflict regions.

With these developments, the German defense industry, including companies like thyssenkrupp, could find itself in an advantageous position. The renewed cooperation with Turkey and the approval of larger arms exports could bring both economic opportunities and political challenges for Germany.

Current events raise questions about the Federal Government's future arms strategy and require a vigilant look at developments and reactions at home and abroad. Further information on this topic can be found here.