Turkey Proposes $1.2 Billion NATO Fuel Pipeline: A Game Changer for Energy Security?

On May 20 (local time), Türkiye said it has proposed a fuel pipeline project to NATO that could serve as an alternative to the Strait of Hormuz.

Rear Adm. Zeki Ackturk, a spokesman for Türkiye’s Defense Ministry, told reporters the NATO fuel-pipeline proposal — meant to bolster energy supplies for NATO’s eastern-flank allies — is currently undergoing the alliance’s internal approval process. 

Ackturk called the project “very important” in light of recent developments around the Strait of Hormuz, saying it could reduce NATO’s reliance on maritime fuel shipments while improving fuel security and operational interoperability. 

He added that, if the pipeline moves forward, funding would come from NATO common funds. 

Ackturk also stressed the proposal is for a military fuel pipeline, underscoring that NATO’s military needs — not civilian use — would take priority if the route is completed. 

Earlier, Bloomberg reported that Türkiye has proposed a 1.8 trillion KRW (about 1.35 billion USD) military pipeline project. The plan would create a new overland route through NATO member Bulgaria to Romania, intended to strengthen fuel supply chains and military interoperability among allies.

Although Türkiye’s domestic fossil-fuel production is limited, it could serve as a logistical bridge to NATO’s eastern front by tapping existing oil and gas pipeline infrastructure linked to nearby producers such as Iraq, Azerbaijan and Syria.

According to Bloomberg, the proposal is expected to be a key agenda item at the NATO summit in Ankara next July.