The 2026 NATO Summit in Ankara is set to address critical issues including enhanced defence spending, industrial capacity, and unwavering support for Ukraine. During his opening remarks and press conference at the Presidential Complex, the NATO Secretary General outlined the Alliance’s priorities, emphasizing the need to translate political commitments into concrete military capabilities.
Boosting Defence Spending and Industrial Capacity
Allies are expected to present plans for reaching a 5% of GDP defence investment goal by 2035, building on commitments made at the previous NATO Summit in The Hague. The Secretary General noted that European Allies and Canada are already investing around 4% of GDP in defence and security, having spent nearly 20% more on core defence last year than the year before. Combined, 2025 and 2026 are cited to see $258 billion in extra investments.
A key focus is strengthening NATO’s industrial capacity. The Summit includes a Defence Industry Forum, where NATO is expected to announce tens of billions in new contracts for critical defence equipment. The Secretary General highlighted Turkey’s defence industry, referring to around 3,000 companies producing defence output, as an example of industrial strength. He underscored the link between the defence industrial base and deterrence, security, economic growth, innovation, and jobs across the Atlantic.
Unwavering Support for Ukraine
Support for Ukraine remains central to the Ankara agenda. The Secretary General argued that Russia continues drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian cities, necessitating sustained aid from Allies and NATO partners, particularly in air defence and interceptors. He stressed, “All Allies need to pull their weight, so that our support to Ukraine continues to flow.”
The broader summit agenda covers Ukraine’s air defence needs, Russian attacks, and the role of drones in modern warfare, aiming to move “From defence plans to drones. From money to missiles and interceptors.”
A Stronger NATO in a Complex World
The Ankara Summit, bringing together 32 Allies and partners from Ukraine, the European Union, the Indo-Pacific, and the Gulf, also addresses the security of NATO’s eastern flank, the High North, and the implications of China’s rise in the South Pacific. Discussions are set to include NATO command structures and U.S. expectations for European Allies. The Secretary General articulated a vision for collective strength, stating, “A stronger Europe in a stronger NATO,” and adding, “We are stronger together, in NATO, with partners, to ensure the freedom and security we all hold dear.”
What is the main goal of the 2026 NATO Summit in Ankara?
The main goal is to strengthen the Alliance’s defence capabilities, with Allies expected to present plans to reach a 5% of GDP defence investment goal by 2035, alongside boosting industrial capacity and ensuring continued support for Ukraine.
What is NATO’s current defence spending target?
NATO Allies previously agreed in The Hague to invest 5% of GDP in defence by 2035. The Secretary General noted that European Allies and Canada are currently investing around 4% of GDP in defence and security.
How is the Ankara Summit addressing support for Ukraine?
Ukraine remains central, with discussions focusing on its air defence needs, countering Russian drone and missile attacks, and ensuring a continuous flow of military support, especially air defence systems and interceptors.
