The Remarkable Transformation of Turkey’s Defense Industry into a Global Power

The Turkish defense industry has rapidly transformed into a global phenomenon, significantly reducing foreign dependency and increasing domestic production. This transformation is highlighted by international media coverage, notably in Le Monde, showcasing advancements by companies like Baykar, which has enhanced Turkey’s military capabilities and fostered partnerships with countries including Italy. Turkey’s military standing has also improved, now ranked ninth globally, as it continues to expand its clientele and influence in Western Europe.

The Turkish defense industry has emerged as a significant global force, moving beyond mere domestic recognition to garner international attention and respect. This transformation is highlighted by considerable media coverage, including a recent article by the French publication Le Monde. The report emphasizes the significant strides taken by Turkey’s arms sector, underscoring the “Made in Türkiye” branding and the remarkable reduction of external dependencies in defense manufacturing.

Le Monde detailed that Turkey’s reliance on foreign materials has diminished from 70% to just 30%, aided by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s encouragement. The Turkish defense industry, comprising around 2,000 businesses, employs approximately 100,000 individuals and exports to roughly 170 countries. Among these companies, Baykar, noted for its advanced production of unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), has become a symbol of Turkey’s military prowess.

Baykar operates from Istanbul, where an average of 4,000 personnel, mostly young, contribute to producing drones that have proven effective in various global conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war. The flagship model, the TB2 drone, is currently utilized by around 30 countries, gaining popular acclaim even inspiring a song dedicated to it. The report conveys that these drones have transformed military strategies, positioning Turkey as a rising power in global defense.

Furthermore, the recent partnership between Baykar and Italian defense giant Leonardo marks another milestone, as both entities will collaborate on combat drone production and space technology development. This partnership underscores Turkey’s impressive production capabilities, with nearly every defense component manufactured domestically. The report noted Turkey’s status as the world’s ninth strongest army, surpassing several notable countries.

This resurgence began after the U.S. arms embargo during Turkey’s Cyprus Peace Operation but accelerated under Erdoğan’s leadership, notably influenced by Baykar’s drone success. Defense expenditure has surged from an annual budget of $5 billion to $60 billion, promoting the “Made in Türkiye” initiative. The report recognized other prominent firms, such as Aselsan and Roketsan, highlighting Turkey’s evolving clientele, which now includes NATO member states in Eastern Europe.

Turkey’s defense sector is making inroads into Western Europe, with contracts from the Portuguese Navy and ongoing collaborations with Spain and Italy. The media coverage of these developments, especially in Greek outlets wary of Turkey’s growing influence, illustrates the geopolitical implications of Turkey’s defense advancements. The deal between Baykar and Leonardo received widespread attention from major international publications, including The Wall Street Journal and Handelsblatt, demonstrating the global interest in Turkey’s evolving defense industry.

In summary, the Turkish defense industry has undergone an extraordinary transformation into a global phenomenon, significantly reducing foreign dependency and enhancing its manufacturing capabilities. With celebrated firms like Baykar leading the charge, Turkey’s military strength continues to rise, as evidenced by growing international partnerships and expanding markets. The implications of this development extend beyond the economic sphere, indicating a shift in global defense dynamics and geopolitical relationships.

Original Source: www.dailysabah.com