Defense Minister Yaşar Güler stated that Turkey’s defense industry aims to become a global technology leader and pioneering actor within the next ten years.
Why it matters
- Strengthening independence in critical technologies is the foundational goal.
- Defense and aerospace exports exceeding $10 billion have positioned Turkey among leading exporting nations.
Güler highlighted that the defense and aerospace ecosystem now includes over 4,000 companies, more than 100,000 direct employees, and annual turnover surpassing $20 billion. The strategy focuses on developing domestic and original capabilities in autonomous systems, fifth-generation fighter aircraft, integrated air defense, and space technologies. In artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, technology integration is being pursued with human decision-making authority at the center to strengthen the Turkish Armed Forces’ digital infrastructure. Advancing space-based capabilities is planned to enhance operational effectiveness and strategic autonomy.
Why it matters for Turkey
These objectives are intended to establish a sustainable, innovative, and independent defense industry structure, which is critical for Turkey’s long-term security and development strategies.
Source: Aydinlik