ANKARA — April 16, 2026 : Turkey’s Ministry of National Defence has announced the initiation of a plan to increase the number of commando brigades in the Turkish Armed Forces from 25 to 40, involving the formation of approximately 15 additional brigades over a multi-year period.
According to the ministry’s statement released on April 16, the expansion is part of ongoing structural updates aimed at adapting the army to evolving warfare conditions, technological developments, and operational requirements. The new brigades will be established using updated organizational models aligned with current threat assessments, differing in structure and operational approach from existing units.
The decision reflects assessments shaped by recent regional and international developments, including the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict and recent U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. Turkish defence officials indicated that these events have influenced the need for enhanced specialized infantry capabilities, particularly for asymmetric warfare and cross-border operations.
The planned increase will be implemented in phases, with some reports indicating a projected three-year timeline to allow for training, equipping, and integration of the new formations. The ministry stated that the additional brigades will incorporate modern training standards, updated equipment, and revised operational concepts designed for rapid deployment and flexible mission profiles.
Turkey’s commando brigade capacity has expanded steadily over the past decades, rising from four brigades in 1994 to 12 by 2018, increasing to 16 following Supreme Military Council decisions after 2018, then to 18 in 2020, and reaching 25 by early 2026. The new target of 40 brigades represents a continuation of this restructuring and professionalization process within the Turkish Land Forces.
The expansion is also aligned with broader defence priorities outlined in Turkey’s 2026 budget, which includes increased allocations for personnel, procurement, and modernization programs. The Turkish Land Forces constitute a significant portion of the country’s approximately 550,000 active military personnel.
Officials stated that the restructuring supports Turkey’s ongoing operational commitments, including participation in NATO activities and cross-border missions. While no specific completion date has been formally confirmed, the initiative is expected to be carried out over several years as part of wider adjustments within the Turkish Armed Forces.
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