The Impact of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty on Turkey's Defense Requirements

The Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces Treaty which was signed on 8 December 1987 eliminates the intermediate-range of American and Soviet ground based missiles from Europe. The treaty has created differences among NATO allies over NATOs military strategy, the modernization of the western nuclear arsenals and future arms control negotiations. Turkey, one of the NATO countries, shares a 610 kilometers common border with the Soviet Union, and is especially concerned about Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces Treatys effect on its security. This study will examine the impact of the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces Treaty on Turkeys defense requirements and attempt to determine what changes in them should be made in the next five years.