The article examines the evolution and current role of the Turkish National Intelligence Organisation (Milli İstihbarat Teşkilatı, MİT) as a key institution for ensuring national security. It analyses the process of development and establishment of intelligence activities in Turkey from the Ottoman period to the modern stage, including institutional reforms due to changes in domestic and foreign policy of the state. Particular attention is paid to the impact of the 2016 coup attempt on the structure and functions of MİT, as well as the redistribution of powers between the military and intelligence agencies. The main areas of the organisation’s work, including counter-terrorism, external operations and the use of modern technologies such as Bayraktar TB2 drones, are reviewed. MİT’s successes in countering security threats, particularly against the Kurdistan Workers’ Party and the FETÖ, are highlighted. Criticism of the organisation in relation to its activities and interaction with military structures is presented. In the context of growing threats, including those from the Middle East, MİT’s importance in ensuring the security of the Republic of Turkey is predicted to further increase.
Republic of Turkey, National Intelligence Organisation, MİT, na tional security, counter-terrorism, intelligence, Ottoman Empire, Kurdistan Workers’ Party, Bayraktar TB2, Middle East, technology.