In the transformation process from the bipolar security architecture of the Cold War to today's multidimensional threat environment, the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) has gone beyond being a military alliance to become one of the leading actors in the global security architecture. This book examines NATO's historical development from its inception to the present day, taking an interdisciplinary approach that encompasses its political, military and institutional dimensions.

The book examines NATO's decision-making mechanisms, its civilian and military organisational structure, and its operations in detail. Topics such as deterrence and defence concepts, ballistic missile defence, hybrid threats, cyberspace, and energy security are presented in a systematic and comprehensive manner. NATO's partnership policies, the transformation of the alliance, new threat perceptions, NATO-EU relations, and Türkiye's strategic position within the alliance are addressed from a unique perspective, and contributions to transatlantic security are evaluated within a historical continuity and strategic context.

Combining theoretical depth with practical application to create a balanced framework, this work serves as a reliable reference for researchers in the fi elds of international relations, defence policies, and security studies, as well as military and civilian decision-makers and all readers seeking to gain an in-depth understanding of NATO's structure and functioning.