Albania's defense reinforcement through Turkey and the geopolitical context

The strengthening of military cooperation between and brings back to the fore the security Balances In southeastern europe, with the development being followed with particular interest by .

The recent agreement signed in the summer of 2025 between the two countries' defense ministries is part of a long-term process of strengthening relations. From the Albanian side, cooperation with Ankara is presented as a necessary step for the upgrading of the armed forces, which still face serious operational and technological shortcomings.

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The agreement includes, among other things, the supply of artillery systems, but also a broader framework of support covering training, technical assistance and infrastructure reinforcement. This is a multi-level cooperation that, according to Tirana, aims to strengthen the country's deterrent capacity within the framework of NATO.

However, this development takes on particular significance in the light of regional balances. Turkey's growing presence in the Balkans, through bilateral agreements and military cooperation, is interpreted by analysts as part of a broader strategic influence. In this context, the deepening of relations with Albania adds to an already complex geopolitical environment.

For Greece, the development is not assessed in isolation. Athens-Ankara relations have historically gone through periods of tension, which makes any strengthening of the Turkish presence in the wider region the subject of careful reading. At the same time, Albania's geographical proximity and the common presence in the Ionian and Adriatic Seas give additional weight to developments in the defense sector.

At the same time, the state of the Albanian armed forces largely explains the shift towards external partners. After the end of the Cold War, much of the country's military infrastructure was abandoned or decommissioned. Old naval facilities and bases remain inactive to this day, while the need for modernization is considered imperative.

The cooperation with Turkey comes to fill this gap, continuing a path that has been underway for decades. Bilateral relations have been strengthened in both the defense and economic sectors, with Ankara being one of Tirana's main investment and trade partners.

At the same time, the two countries cooperate closely within international organizations, such as NATO, as well as in missions abroad. This practice has enhanced the interoperability of the armed forces and created a solid basis for cooperation.

From the greek perspective, this development is being viewed with a combination Of realism and caution. on the one Hand, albania's right to strengthen its defense and choose its partners is Recognized. on the other hand, turkey's growing Influence in the region raises questions about the future formation of balances, especially in a period when geopolitical conditions remain fluid.

In any case, the course of Albania-Turkey relations is a factor that is expected to affect overall stability and security in Southeastern Europe, with Greece closely monitoring developments, seeking to maintain balance and stability in the wider region.