France’s Meteor Missile Sale to Turkey Sparks Greek Outrage

Greece is voicing strong opposition to France over the potential sale of Meteor air-to-air missiles to Turkey, fearing the deal could erode its military advantage over its long-standing rival. The controversy comes as Turkey also pursues the Eurofighter jet, raising concerns in Athens about a shifting balance of power in the region.

Despite signing a defense pact with Greece, French President Emmanuel Macron has reportedly dismissed Greek appeals to block the missile sale. The Meteor missile, developed by a European defense consortium headquartered in France, is considered a game-changer in aerial combat, capable of striking targets beyond visual range.

Strategic Interests Override Greek Concerns

According to Professor Federico Donelli of Trieste University, France’s decision aligns with broader geopolitical shifts, particularly in light of the war in Ukraine.

"Turkey and European countries have the same geo-strategic interest. If you ask Turkish policymakers, for them, the main threat to the country's security and stability remains Russia," Donelli explained.

Turkey, which has NATO’s second-largest army with over 800,000 personnel, is increasingly seen as a vital component of European defense amid growing concerns over Russian aggression.

Turkey’s Role in European Defense Gains Traction

The Munich Security Conference earlier this month underscored Washington’s call for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own defense.

“We think it's an important part of being in a shared alliance together that the Europeans step up while America focuses on areas of the world that are in great danger,” stated U.S. Vice President JD Vance.

While Turkey’s human rights record and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s leadership style have strained relations with the European Union, security concerns are now taking precedence over political differences.

"After Russia's invasion of Ukraine, NATO members are starting to perceive Turkey as an important ally. It may not be the easiest partner, but it is the most useful one," Donelli remarked.

Turkey’s Expanding Military Role in Europe

European leaders have held discussions on Ukraine and the broader security landscape, with Turkey positioning itself as a key player in Euro-Atlantic defense.

“European allies now realize that without Turkey, we cannot continue to defend the European continent and NATO security,” said Turkish presidential advisor Mesut Casin.

During a recent visit to Turkey, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the need for strong military alliances to secure peace with Russia.

“Two critical issues: a strong Ukrainian army and the deployment of allied forces from Europe and the U.S.,” Zelensky stated alongside Erdoğan.

Although details of their discussions remain undisclosed, Turkey’s experience in UN peacekeeping missions suggests a potential role in stabilization efforts in Ukraine, if an agreement is reached.

“Turkey has participated in some of the world's toughest UN peacekeeping operations, from Kosovo to Somalia,” noted Casin.

However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has firmly rejected NATO peacekeepers in Ukraine, complicating Ankara’s potential involvement.

Turkey’s Growing Influence in European Security

While diplomatic tensions persist, Turkey’s military strength and strategic position are making it an indispensable ally in NATO’s evolving security framework. With European concerns over U.S. commitment to the alliance growing, Turkey’s role in shaping Europe’s defense strategy is becoming more pronounced than ever.