The strong bonds between Turkey and Pakistan are well-known, characterized by robust military and economic relationships. Recently, a critical question has surfaced: Can Turkey develop nuclear weapons? Since 1998, Pakistan has been a nuclear power, but what is Turkey's status?
Turkey's Current Status
Currently, Turkey does not possess nuclear weapons. As a member of NATO, it hosts U.S. nuclear weapons (B-61 bombs) at the Incirlik Air Base, controlled solely by the U.S. Turkey cannot use them without American consent.
Signing the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in 1968 restricts Turkey from developing nuclear weapons, with possible international sanctions if it attempts to do so.
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Nuclear Technology and Infrastructure
Turkey lacks uranium mining, enrichment, or nuclear fuel reprocessing capabilities—essential for nuclear bomb production. It is constructing the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant with Russian assistance, slated to begin operations in 2025.
This project is for power generation, yet some fear potential misuse of nuclear technology. While Turkish scientists might understand bomb-making technology, they lack the necessary infrastructure and raw materials.
Source: aajtak
Relations with Pakistan and Its Impact
Military and strategic partnerships between Pakistan and Turkey are strong. Pakistan's nuclear technology, thanks to scientists like A.Q. Khan, contributes to speculation of sharing with Turkey, but there's no concrete evidence of such exchanges.
President Erdogan's Ambitions
In 2019, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan voiced dissatisfaction over nuclear armament discrepancies among countries, expressing a desire for Turkey to possess nuclear arms, especially with Iran's increasing nuclear activities.
While some speculate about Erdogan's vision of reviving a neo-Ottoman era, including nuclear capabilities, pressures from the U.S. and NATO present substantial challenges.
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Challenges and Risks
Turkey faces numerous obstacles in the path of nuclear armament...
Firstly, leaving NATO would dismiss the American nuclear umbrella, a risky move.
Secondly, nuclear fuel reliance on Russia incurs payback, stalling bomb production.
Thirdly, Turkey might face international isolation if such steps are taken.
Lastly, the Akkuyu plant, located in an earthquake zone, raises safety concerns.
What Can Turkey Do?
Currently, Turkey lacks full nuclear bomb-making capability. Acquiring technology from Pakistan could potentially achieve this within 5-10 years, facing opposition from Russia and the U.S. However, Turkey's economy and international pressures complicate the pursuit. While some on social media talk about the potential danger of a Turkey-Pakistan alliance, these are mere speculations, not certainties.
