Unlikely Allies: How Turkey’s Need for Artillery Shells Drives Closeness with Washington Amid Conflicts

Turkey’s decision to recognize Israel in 1949 was not motivated by support for Zionism, but rather by the need to strengthen ties with Washington and eventually join NATO. Today, strained relations between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden have led to a shift in traditional alliances, with both leaders finding common ground based on mutual opportunism.

Reports suggest that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan may visit the White House on May 9, his first trip to Washington since Biden took office. The increasing demand for artillery shells, especially the 155mm shells used by NATO countries like Israel, has driven this unexpected closeness between the two leaders. As the conflict in Ukraine escalated, demand for these shells skyrocketed, leading to a supply shortage. The US and EU are working to increase production rates to meet demand, and Turkey is expected to play a significant role in the supply chain.

Erdogan’s strategic maneuvers amid global conflicts, such as selling drones to Ukraine while receiving S-400 batteries from Russia, demonstrate his complex diplomatic approach. By aligning with the US on artillery production, Erdogan is positioning Turkey as a key player on the world stage. Shifting alliances and geopolitical dynamics underscore the interconnectedness of global politics and how leaders navigate complex relationships to advance their interests. As the demand for artillery shells continues to grow, countries like Turkey are seizing opportunities to strengthen their positions in the international arena.