NATO Deputy Commander Calls for Unity and Increased Defense Spending Ahead of Turkey Summit

Air Chief Marshal John Stringer, NATO’s deputy supreme allied commander in Europe, said the upcoming summit in Turkey should reinforce alliance unity and encourage members to raise defense spending. Speaking in London ahead of the July 7-8 meeting, Stringer described the gathering as a “highly political event” that tests the cohesion of the 32-nation alliance.

Stringer noted that European countries are increasing investments, citing examples such as the quadrupling of 155 mm artillery shell production, to build a “really credible force.” He said the summit will address how to sustain such production levels, a task not required in recent decades.

U.S. defense policy adds uncertainty, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announcing a six-month review of American forces in Europe. European officials, including Estonia’s Maj. Gen. Indrek Sirel and Finland’s Brig. Gen. Jyri Raitasalo, said the outcome will influence how quickly allies must assume greater security responsibilities, especially on NATO’s eastern flank.

Stringer acknowledged that replacing U.S. long-range strike and surveillance capabilities would be challenging, but suggested a “cocktail” of mixed capabilities could mitigate gaps. He emphasized the need for clear, credible plans rather than vague spending promises.

British defence leadership also faces scrutiny after recent ministerial resignations over defence spending targets. New defence secretary Dan Jarvis affirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to the alliance’s goal of reaching a 3.5 % GDP defence spend, a target set for 2035.

Overall, Stringer urged members to demonstrate “cohesion and unity” while engaging in honest discussions to produce actionable defence strategies, warning that the alliance’s credibility depends on translating commitments into concrete measures.