NATO leaders announced defence agreements worth tens of billions of dollars on Tuesday, underscoring their commitment to strengthening Europe’s military capabilities ahead of a key summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in Turkey. Speaking at a defence industry forum in Ankara, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte revealed a series of multinational procurement initiatives, including European purchases of surveillance drones from U.S.-based Northrop Grumman and NATO’s acquisition of aircraft from Sweden’s Saab. The alliance also pledged to invest more than $40 billion over the next five years to enhance anti-drone capabilities.
The announcements come amid growing pressure from President Trump for European allies to increase defence spending and reduce reliance on the United States. NATO members have significantly boosted military budgets, with European countries and Canada reportedly spending $90 billion more on defence in 2025 than the previous year. Meanwhile, the U.S. is exploring joint missile production in Europe with Germany and other allies to address rising demand driven by the wars in Ukraine and Iran. Trump is also expected to discuss allowing Turkey to rejoin the F-35 fighter jet programme after its suspension following Ankara’s purchase of Russia’s S-400 missile system in 2019.
The summit takes place against a backdrop of heightened tensions within the alliance, with Trump continuing to criticise NATO members over defence contributions and questioning the alliance’s collective security commitments. European leaders are expected to reaffirm support for Ukraine and pledge €70 billion in assistance for 2026, as Russia intensifies attacks on Ukrainian cities. The discussions in Ankara are seen as crucial in shaping NATO’s future strategy while reinforcing allied cooperation in response to evolving global security challenges.
Pic Courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright
