Ankara–Doha Defense Move on Tel Aviv’s Radar
The accelerating defense and maritime cooperation between Turkey and Qatar has resonated widely in the Israeli press
The accelerating defense and maritime cooperation between Turkey and Qatar has triggered alarm bells in Tel Aviv. Billion-dollar frigate agreements and joint defense projects signed along the Ankara–Doha axis have been described by the Israeli press as “a move that will reshape regional balances.”
The defense and maritime agreements signed between Ankara and Doha are now closely monitored in Tel Aviv. While the Netanyahu government continues its rhetoric targeting the Turkey–Qatar partnership, the billion-dollar cooperation between the two countries has made headlines in Israel as a step “influencing regional dynamics.”
$1 Billion Frigate Deal
According to information reported by Defense News and cited in Israeli media, the centerpiece of the agreement is two ISTIF-class frigates to be built by Turkey’s TAIS Shipbuilding Consortium. Valued at around $1 billion, the deal will significantly enhance the naval defense capacity of Qatar’s navy.
Developed under Turkey’s national MİLGEM (National Ship) program, ISTIF-class frigates stand out with their modular design and integrated combat systems. Measuring approximately 113 meters in length and displacing over 3,000 tons, these vessels represent advanced naval technology. Turkey has previously signed contracts to supply two ISTIF-class frigates to Indonesia, while also delivering MİLGEM ADA-class corvettes to Pakistan (4), Ukraine (2), Malaysia (3), and Romania (1).
Joint Production of Unmanned Naval Systems
The agreements extend beyond frigates. A memorandum of understanding was signed between Turkish defense company STM and Qatar for the joint development and production of unmanned and autonomous naval platforms.
Israeli media also reported that five additional agreements were signed with leading Turkish defense firms, including ASELSAN.
Israeli columnist David Cohen commented: “The defense cooperation between Turkey and Qatar directly challenges Netanyahu’s revisionist plans. Turkish defense industry exhibitions are being closely monitored.”
