Key Takeaways

• Türkiye’s defense exports reached $7.2 billion in 2024, a 29% increase, showcasing a shift towards domestic production.
• The country has moved from 80% foreign dependence in defense 20 years ago to 80% domestic capability today.
• Türkiye ranks 11th globally in defense exports, with plans for further growth and strengthened international collaborations.

Defense Industry Milestone Achieved

Türkiye’s defense and aviation sector has made significant strides, achieving $7.2 billion in exports during 2024, marking a 29% rise. This development underscores the nation’s transition from an import-reliant market to a recognized global defense exporter. Haluk Bayraktar, Chairman of SAHA Istanbul’s Board of Directors, reported that high and medium-high technology production accounts for 47% of the industry, surpassing the 17% share of low-technology sectors.

At SAHA Istanbul’s 6th Ordinary General Assembly Meeting, Bayraktar emphasized the ripple effects of the National Technology Initiative on the broader economy. The organization, which has seen remarkable growth from 27 members a decade ago to over 1,300 today, is recognized as Europe’s largest industrial cluster.

Historically, Türkiye’s defense industry was 80% dependent on foreign imports, but this reliance has dramatically shifted. Today, the nation boasts an 80% domestic production capability. Bayraktar highlighted that the determination to control national defense technology, alongside the success of platforms like the Bayraktar TB2 and KAAN, positions Türkiye as a global brand, exporting to over 180 countries.

Additionally, Türkiye has climbed to 11th place globally in defense exports with a 1.6% market share, supplying 230 different defense products to 185 nations. This remarkable ranking among leading defense exporters like the USA and France is attributed to strategic planning and technological advancement.

International partnerships play a crucial role in this growth, evident through major acquisitions like Baykar’s purchase of the historic Italian firm Piaggio Aerospace and fruitful collaborations with companies like Leonardo. Projections indicate that export numbers will surge beyond 2024 levels by early 2025.

The SAHA EXPO trade fair has also become a key venue for the defense industry, expanding from 70 participating countries in 2022 to 120 countries today. The number of companies exhibiting jumped from 957 to 1,478, increasing business volume from $1.2 billion to $6.2 billion.

Deputy Defense Minister Suay Alpay pointed out that the defense industry transcends mere military concerns; it embodies the country’s economic security and technological independence. SAHA Istanbul is identified as a strategic pillar of Türkiye’s global technology agenda, showcasing national innovations in fields ranging from space technologies and artificial intelligence to quantum computing and cybersecurity.

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