The Spectacular Rise of Turkey’s Defense Industry Revealed by Global Media
The Turkish defense industry has rapidly evolved into a global player, significantly reducing foreign dependency and boosting domestic production. Notable companies like Baykar are leading this transformation, with the industry experiencing extraordinary growth under President Erdoğan, exemplified by international collaborations and expanding export markets. Turkey is now ranked as the ninth strongest military worldwide, highlighting its enhanced defense capabilities and strategic importance.
The Turkish defense industry has emerged as a significant and globally recognized sector, garnering considerable media attention recently. According to the French newspaper Le Monde, this industry has transformed from a source of national pride to a global phenomenon, highlighting the increasing interest in Turkish defense capabilities and innovations.
Le Monde pointed out that Turkey’s arms sector has significantly reduced its reliance on foreign materials, dropping from 70% to 30% in a few years. The publication credited these advancements to the initiatives of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, noting that the Turkish defense industry encompasses around 2,000 companies employing 100,000 people and exporting products to approximately 170 countries.
The report detailed Baykar, a leading Turkish arms manufacturer, noting that the average age of its 4,000 employees is 29. Baykar’s unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) have gained international prominence, having been utilized in diverse conflicts including the Russia-Ukraine war, and were instrumental in engagements against the PKK in Northern Iraq.
Baykar’s flagship model, the TB2, is operational in approximately 30 countries, including Morocco and Burkina Faso. The vehicle has earned global recognition, even inspiring a song from Ukrainian forces in tribute to its capabilities. Le Monde emphasized that since 2016, Baykar has become synonymous with Turkey’s military strength and has significantly altered the dynamics of warfare.
The article also addressed a collaboration between Baykar and Italy’s Leonardo, focusing on the joint production of combat drones and developments in space technologies. This partnership underscores the rapid advancements within Turkey’s defense sector, which reportedly manufactures a wide array of defense products.
Le Monde referenced Global Firepower statistics, ranking Turkey as the ninth strongest military globally, surpassing nations such as Italy and Israel. The expansion of Turkey’s military capabilities began post the U.S. arms embargo during the Cyprus Conflict, but the industry truly accelerated under Erdoğan’s leadership, primarily due to the prominence of Baykar’s drones.
Defense budgets for projects have skyrocketed from $5 billion to $60 billion during Erdoğan’s administration, cementing a robust national defense agenda. Prominent companies, including Aselsan and Roketsan, have contributed to this advancement, producing essential systems and munitions.
While initially focused on regional clientele, Turkish defense exports are now reaching NATO allies in Eastern Europe and have made inroads into Western European markets as well, with notable contracts from Portugal and agreements with Spain on new projects.
The growth of Turkey’s defense industry has caught the attention of Greek media, against the backdrop of historical tensions with Ankara. The recent collaboration between Baykar and Leonardo has also captured headlines in prominent international publications, illustrating the global significance of Turkey’s defense advancements.
In conclusion, the Turkish defense industry has transitioned to a significant global player, driven by innovative companies like Baykar. The reduction in foreign dependency on defense materials, coupled with substantial government investment, has catapulted Turkey into a prominent position within the global defense sector. As it expands its market reach, particularly amidst European allies, Turkey’s military capabilities continue to gain recognition and reshape international defense landscapes.
Original Source: www.dailysabah.com
