The Blue Homeland doctrine represents Turkey’s strategic and geopolitical vision for protecting its maritime rights in the Black Sea, Aegean, and Eastern Mediterranean. The concept emphasizes that Turkey’s national interests extend beyond its land borders and include significant maritime zones such as territorial waters, the continental shelf, and the exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The primary goal of the doctrine is to safeguard Turkey’s access to energy resources, ensure maritime security, and defend its regional interests.

First introduced in 2006 by retired Rear Admiral Cem Gürdeniz and later expanded and systematized by Rear Admiral (ret.) Cihat Yaycı, the Blue Homeland strategy envisions approximately 462,000 km² of maritime areas as part of Turkey’s legitimate zones of interest. These regions carry critical importance due to their underwater gas and oil potential, fisheries, strategic waterways, and security relevance.

The doctrine also supports enhancing Turkey’s naval capabilities, modernizing its fleet, and strengthening deterrence in the region. It frames maritime sovereignty not only as an economic priority but also as a pillar of national independence and long-term strategic security. Ensuring energy access, protecting maritime borders, and reinforcing Turkey’s status in its surrounding seas are among the key motivations driving the Blue Homeland approach.