Turkey plans to connect fuel pipelines to the NATO network, according to Bloomberg
Turkey intends to integrate its own underground fuel pipeline system into the NATO network as part of a large-scale program to modernize the Alliance’s infrastructure, with a total cost of $28 billion.
According to sources, the project involves connecting the pipeline system near the city of Çorlu in Turkish Thrace to the network in the south of the country in the Mersin area and the Incirlik Air Base.
The new connection is expected to become part of NATO’s fuel network, established during the Cold War, which supplies Alliance forces with fuel during military operations.
In addition to strengthening NATO’s logistical capabilities, the project is also intended to enhance Turkey’s own energy security and infrastructure.
The acceleration of plans to modernize the system was a response to disruptions in energy supplies caused by Russia’s war against Ukraine and the escalation of the situation in the Middle East.
Turkey is of significant strategic importance to NATO, as it borders Iran and controls access to the Black Sea opposite Ukraine.
Currently, NATO’s pipeline network stretches approximately 10,000 kilometers and connects military bases, civilian airports, fuel depots, and other strategic facilities in 12 Alliance member countries.
The system is designed to rapidly supply fuel for military operations, including air transport and in-flight refueling.
According to sources, some of NATO’s infrastructure projects, including the Turkish initiative, may be approved during the Alliance’s summit on July 7–8 in Ankara.
Funding will come from funds allocated for the expansion of NATO infrastructure, while member states will contribute to the financing of the facilities’ ongoing operation.
At the same time, Turkey will independently cover the costs of system components used for civilian purposes.
Among other promising NATO projects under discussion are:
- expanding the fuel network to Eastern European countries;
- the construction of a direct military fuel pipeline between Turkey and Romania.
The preliminary cost of such a route is estimated at approximately $1.2 billion.
The implementation of these projects is expected to strengthen NATO’s logistical capabilities and enhance the Alliance’s readiness to respond to potential threats on its eastern flank.
Bloomberg reports on the details of the project.
Ukraine and Turkey are nearing a major energy agreement that provides for joint gas production in the Black Sea and the creation of a new fuel supply route to Europe via the Ukrainian gas transmission system. This was discussed during talks between the energy ministers of both countries.
Turkey and Russia are negotiating the extension of natural gas supply agreements beyond 2026, as the current contracts expire at the end of that period. The parties are discussing the possibility of extending energy cooperation, which remains an important component of bilateral economic relations.
