The Spectacular Ascent of the Turkish Defense Industry: A Global Perspective

The Turkish defense industry has transformed significantly, marked by its burgeoning global presence and reduced dependency on foreign materials. Major developments have included partnerships with companies like Italy’s Leonardo and a focus on advanced drone technology by Baykar. Reports indicate that Türkiye now ranks as the ninth strongest military globally, showcasing the rapid growth and capability expansion within its defense sector.

The Turkish defense industry has emerged as a dominant sector, showcasing a remarkable transformation from a domestic hub to a global player. Recent media coverage highlights this evolution, emphasizing the impact and growth of the industry, particularly with the notable French publication, Le Monde, highlighting the “Made in Türkiye” motto. The sector has made significant strides in reducing external dependencies, achieving a drop from 70% to 30% within a few years.

Le Monde’s article, titled “The Spectacular Rise of the Arms Sector in Türkiye,” underscores the advancements made in the Turkish defense industry, driven by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s encouragement. The report notes that the industry comprises around 2,000 companies and employs approximately 100,000 people, exporting to nearly 170 countries. It highlights Baykar, a leading arms manufacturer, particularly its flagship drone model, the TB2, which is in use across 30 countries, including Morocco and Ukraine.

Baykar’s achievements have garnered global attention, especially since its unmanned combat aerial vehicles played crucial roles in several international conflicts, prompting even lyrical tributes from Ukrainians. Furthermore, the Turkish military has utilized these drones effectively against various targets, marking Baykar as a symbol of Türkiye’s burgeoning military power since 2016.

The article also notes a significant partnership between Baykar and Italy’s Leonardo, focusing on developing combat drones and expanding into space technology collaborations. This reflects Türkiye’s ambitious growth within the defense sector, which has broadened its manufacturing capabilities to encompass a wide array of defense technologies.

The report cites Global Firepower statistics, positioning Türkiye as the ninth strongest military globally, ahead of several European countries. The nation’s defense development accelerated following an arms embargo by the U.S. during the Cyprus conflict but gained momentum under Erdoğan’s leadership, propelled by Baykar’s innovations.

Noteworthy firms such as Aselsan and Roketsan have contributed to Türkiye’s defense capabilities, which have expanded beyond its initial clients in the Middle East to include NATO allies in Eastern Europe. Furthermore, deals with Western European nations signal a growing influence in regions previously less engaged with Turkish defense.

The recent Baykar-Leonardo partnership has drawn attention across the globe, with major media outlets like The Wall Street Journal and Handelsblatt covering the developments, reflecting the strategic importance of Türkiye’s defense advancements amid its historical tensions with neighboring Greece.

In summary, the Turkish defense industry has seen a spectacular rise, evolving from a nationally focused sector to a significant global player. Significant initiatives, partnerships, and advancements in technology have positioned Türkiye as a formidable force in the global arms market. The strategic expansions into Europe and beyond mark a pivotal point in Türkiye’s defense landscape, underscoring the importance of military innovation and international collaborations.

Original Source: www.dailysabah.com