Assoc. Prof. Ali Oğuz DİRİÖZ -  TOBB University of Economics and Technology (TOBB ETU)

Dr. Teoman Ertuğrul TULUN - Center For Eurasian Studies (AVİM)

Introduction

In the modern era, military preparedness transcends traditional defense against adversaries to encompass robust responses to environmental catastrophes. This evolution demands a multi-dimensional approach that integrates military operations seamlessly with civilian infrastructures. Such integration not only expedites response times but also magnifies effectiveness, equipping Türkiye to manage both man-made and natural crises more competently. As the globe faces increasing environmental challenges, Türkiye's strategic enhancement of its military capabilities becomes crucial for regional and global stability. This commitment is exemplified by recent advancements in the Turkish Navy, which demonstrate a strategic alignment with national security and disaster response needs. Military preparedness is no longer just about defense against human adversaries but also involves a robust response to environmental catastrophes. This requires a multi-dimensional approach, where military operations are not isolated but integrated seamlessly with civilian infrastructure. Enhancing this integration speeds up response times and amplifies effectiveness, allowing for a comprehensive approach to crisis situations.

Technological Integration and Naval Advancements

The integration extends beyond mere cooperation to include logistical support, such as supply chains and mobile communications, essential for rapid deployment during disasters. Innovations like drone technology have proven their worth in monitoring and responding to crises such as fires and floods and must be incorporated systematically into military strategies.

The Turkish Navy's recent capability enhancements exemplify a significant alignment with the strategic objectives of integrating military and civilian efforts in crisis management. The introduction of versatile naval platforms, such as the TCG Derya (supply and combat support ship), TCG Istanbul (locally produced frigate), Marlin SİDA (unmanned surface vehicle), and TCG Arif Ekmekçi (logistic support ship), underscores a commitment to a multi-dimensional military approach. These assets are crucial for comprehensive crisis response, aligning with strategies that emphasize military integration with civilian infrastructures.[1]

Technological advancements, particularly the integration of the Marlin SİDA, the world's first unmanned surface vehicle, into the fleet, mirror the recommended strategic use of drone technology for enhanced monitoring and response during crises. Although these naval assets are primarily designed for military use, their capabilities for logistical support make them invaluable for disaster relief operations, embodying the recommended enhancement of military roles in responding to natural disasters.[2]

Turkish Presidents remarks about these developments underscore their dual function in strengthening diplomatic posture and deterring potential adversaries, aligning with the strategy to use military enhancements for improving international cooperation and deterrence. The adaptability of these naval platforms for both traditional military roles and humanitarian assistance aligns with the vision of developing dual-use capabilities that serve comprehensive national security and humanitarian needs.[3]

Furthermore, the progression of Türkiye’s naval capabilities solidifies its regional leadership role, prepared to confront and manage future challenges effectively. This leadership is crucial for maintaining regional stability and promoting the principle of "Peace at Home, Peace in the World."

To realize this vision fully, Türkiye should:

• Establish specific protocols and training for utilizing these naval assets in disaster response scenarios.
• Enhance collaboration between military and civilian disaster response agencies like AFAD.
• Invest in specialized equipment and training for disaster relief operations that can be deployed from these naval platforms.
• Engage in international disaster response exercises to showcase these capabilities and foster regional cooperation.

These steps will ensure the full operationalization of the naval capabilities in line with strategic goals, paving the way for a comprehensive approach to both national and regional security and disaster management.[4]

Prioritizing peace and diplomacy should not be mistaken for timidity or a surrender of sovereign rights. Instead, it emphasizes the need to bolster collective security and unity through the advancement of national defense capabilities. These capabilities are crucial not only for traditional military engagements but also for responding to natural disasters such as earthquakes, wildfires, and floods through coordinated search and rescue operations, logistics, and support services. [5]

This multifaceted role of defense technologies not only enhances Türkiye's diplomatic posture but also supports a strong and deterrent defense sector. Adhering to the adage 'Si Vis Pacem, Para Bellum' (If you want peace, prepare for war), this approach advocates for preparedness over aggression, underlining that Türkiye’s prowess in areas like drone technology not only deters adversaries but also solidifies trust among allies.[6]

Moreover, Türkiye’s military enhancements should consider not only the tactical but also the humanitarian aspects of disaster response. Strengthening military capabilities in coordination with civilian agencies like AFAD (Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency) will enable both immediate relief and long-term Türkiye recovery efforts, reflecting the principle of 'Peace at Home, Peace in the World.'

Strategic Context

In addition to enhancing its military capabilities, Türkiye is also making strides in environmental and disaster management. In 2016, the country's greenhouse gas emissions increased, but it has set ambitious goals to generate 30% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2023 and has developed a robust network of earthquake observation stations. Furthermore, the training of over 37 million citizens in disaster awareness since 2021 exemplifies Türkiye’s commitment to resilience. These efforts underscore the recommendations to further develop specialized disaster response units within the Turkish Armed Forces, improve coordination with agencies like AFAD, and invest in advanced monitoring technologies. Such initiatives not only bolster national security but also position Türkiye as a leader in sustainable and humanitarian military practices.[7]

The increasing importance of military forces in disaster response is underscored by their critical role during significant natural disasters such as earthquakes, which often overwhelm national disaster response agencies. In Türkiye, the February 2023 earthquakes resulted in direct damages estimated at $34.2 billion, according to the GRADE Report. Further compounding the devastation, the Syria Earthquake 2023 RDNA estimated physical damages at $3.7 billion and economic losses at $1.5 billion, totaling $5.2 billion in overall impact. These earthquakes severely damaged or destroyed approximately 230,000 buildings across 11 provinces in Türkiye, with an additional 10,600 buildings in northwest Syria affected.[8]

Policy Recommendations

To enhance disaster response capabilities, Türkiye can leverage its military's operational efficiency. This involves developing specialized units within the armed forces dedicated to disaster response and humanitarian aid, and investing in advanced technologies for disaster monitoring, search, and rescue operations. Improving civil-military cooperation is also crucial, requiring the establishment of clear guidelines and protocols for integrating efforts during emergencies, as well as conducting joint training exercises with civilian disaster response agencies.[9]

Strengthening international cooperation through mechanisms like NATO's Euro-Atlantic Disaster Response Coordination Centre (EADRCC) can facilitate the coordination of international assistance, while bilateral and multilateral agreements can ensure rapid military deployment in disaster situations. Investment in disaster preparedness, such as allocating resources for risk reduction and enforcing stringent building codes in earthquake-prone areas, is vital. Moreover, addressing potential challenges by adhering to humanitarian principles and developing clear military exit strategies post-crisis is essential. By implementing these measures, Türkiye not only boosts its domestic capabilities but also contributes significantly to international disaster relief efforts.[10]

Furthermore, Türkiye has the opportunity to augment its international stature and regional influence through a balanced strategy of humanitarian aid and military preparedness. Recommendations for this strategy include developing a specialized humanitarian aid unit within the Turkish Armed Forces, enhancing international cooperation through joint exercises, and promoting a balanced approach of soft and hard power to project a strong yet compassionate national image. Investment in cutting-edge technologies for disaster response and the promotion of the 'Peace at Home, Peace in the World' principle can further enhance regional stability and cooperation, positioning Türkiye as a benevolent and powerful leader in the international community. This strategic deployment of capabilities should aim to foster goodwill and deter conflicts, enhancing Türkiye's image as a reliable partner in both times of peace and crisis.

Conclusion

Türkiye's proactive advancements in military and disaster management capabilities mark a significant stride towards realizing a comprehensive approach to national and regional security. By developing dual-use military assets that serve both defense and humanitarian needs, Türkiye strengthens its position as a pivotal leader in crisis management. The integration of advanced technologies and the enhancement of civil-military cooperation further empower Türkiye to respond effectively to disasters, reflecting the core principle of 'Peace at Home, Peace in the World.' As it continues to build on these capabilities, Türkiye not only safeguards its own citizens but also enhances its international stature, demonstrating its commitment to stability and humanitarian assistance. The strategic deployment of these capabilities aims to foster regional cooperation and prevent conflicts, positioning Türkiye as a reliable and potent force in the international arena.

*Picture: Libya Herald