The Turkish defense industry has evolved into a global phenomenon, as highlighted by a recent article in Le Monde. The sector has significantly reduced foreign dependency, attributed to President Erdoğan’s leadership. With 2,000 companies employing 100,000 individuals and expanding exports, firms like Baykar lead the innovation, evidenced by their use in international conflicts. Growing partnerships with European nations further solidify Turkey’s defense presence.
The Turkish defense industry has transitioned from a source of national pride to a significant global player, as evidenced by increasing international interest and media coverage. Recently, the French publication, Le Monde, highlighted the advancements and key players within the Turkish arms sector, reinforcing the “Made in Türkiye” ethos. Furthermore, the report emphasized a dramatic reduction in Turkey’s dependency on foreign defense materials, having decreased from 70% to 30% in just a few years, with a robust industry now consisting of 2,000 companies and employing approximately 100,000 individuals.
Baykar, a leading arms manufacturer based in Istanbul, showcases the innovative spirit of the Turkish defense sector. The company, which has a young workforce averaging 29 years old, is recognized for its unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) that have seen use in various conflicts, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Notably, the Baykar-developed TB2 model operates in around 30 countries, garnering acclaim even inspiring a song in Ukraine to honor its contributions.
The article further traces the historical context of Turkey’s defense industry growth following an arms embargo during the Cyprus Peace Operation, a development that spurred advancements under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s leadership. The industry’s budget for defense projects has surged from $5 billion in previous administrations to an impressive $60 billion under Erdoğan, allowing for unprecedented modernization.
Additionally, while traditional clients for Turkish defense products were in the Middle East and Africa, recent trends show orders from Eastern European NATO members and even engagements in Western Europe. Significant strides include agreements with firms such as Leonardo in Italy and orders from countries like Portugal, exhibiting Turkey’s global reach in defense manufacturing and collaboration.
In summary, the Turkish defense industry has established itself as a formidable entity on the global stage, significantly diminishing foreign dependence and enhancing self-sufficiency. Under the guidance of President Erdoğan, the sector has experienced unprecedented growth, achieving a prominent status through innovative firms like Baykar. Turkey’s expanding influence is evidenced by increasing orders from NATO allies and ongoing collaborations with major European defense companies, thereby marking a pivotal moment in its global defense narrative.
Original Source: www.dailysabah.com
