The Turkish defense industry has evolved into a significant global entity, with reduced foreign dependency. The sector comprises 2,000 companies, employs 100,000 people, and exports globally. Notable firms like Baykar have advanced Türkiye’s military capabilities, leading to partnerships with international companies and expansion into European markets.
The Turkish defense industry has gained prominence on the global stage, evolving from a source of national pride to an internationally recognized phenomenon. Recent media coverage, particularly by the French publication Le Monde, underscores the significant advancements and reduced foreign dependency within the sector, emphasizing the “Made in Türkiye” ethos.
Le Monde’s article highlights the Turkish arms sector’s remarkable progress, noting a decrease in foreign material dependency from 70% to 30%, thanks to initiatives driven by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. This industry now comprises 2,000 companies, employing around 100,000 individuals and exporting to approximately 170 countries.
Baykar, a leading manufacturer headquartered in Istanbul, is spotlighted for contributing to Türkiye’s defense capabilities. With an average employee age of 29, Baykar’s unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) have been utilized in conflicts such as Russia-Ukraine, Karabakh, and Libya. The effectiveness of Baykar’s flagship TB2 model has garnered recognition, even inspiring a dedicated song in Ukraine.
The Turkish military has deployed these drones in various operations, particularly against the PKK in northern Iraq. The report emphasizes Baykar’s pivotal role in elevating Türkiye’s global influence, labeling it a representation of the nation’s emerging “hard power,”
A recent cooperative agreement with Italy’s Leonardo further illustrates Türkiye’s aspirations in the defense sector, focusing on producing combat drones and advancing space technology. The Turkish defense industry is characterized by a diverse range of capabilities, producing everything from UAVs to fighter jets.
According to Global Firepower data, Türkiye ranks as the ninth strongest army worldwide, surpassing nations such as Italy and Germany. The development of the national defense sector accelerated post-Cyprus Peace Operation due to a U.S. arms embargo, with Erdoğan’s leadership significantly enhancing growth fueled by Baykar’s drone success.
The defense funding has surged from $5 billion under previous administrations to $60 billion during Erdoğan’s term. Companies like Aselsan and Roketsan are also noteworthy contributors, producing critical defense technologies.
Initially focused on regional markets, Türkiye’s defense industry now attracts orders from NATO allies in Eastern Europe, including Poland and Romania. Additionally, it is establishing connections with Western European nations, evidenced by contracts with Portugal and collaborations with Spain and Italy.
The burgeoning defense sector has not gone unnoticed in Greece, where media coverage often reflects concerns pertaining to their historical rivalry with Türkiye. Furthermore, the recent partnership announcement between Baykar and Leonardo has garnered international attention, receiving coverage from prominent outlets such as The Wall Street Journal and Handelsblatt.
In conclusion, the Turkish defense industry has achieved remarkable global recognition, transitioning into a prominent player on the world stage. Driven by domestic ingenuity, substantial government support, and strategic partnerships, it has become less reliant on foreign technology. This transformation has positioned Türkiye as a significant force in global defense, expanding its market reach beyond traditional allies and stirring international interest due to its effective defense capabilities and cutting-edge technology.
Original Source: www.dailysabah.com
