Rapid Advancement in Defense Exports' sales figures
Turkey's Defense and Aerospace Industry Soars to New Heights
Turkey's defense and aerospace industry has experienced a remarkable growth spurt over the past two decades, transforming the country into a global player in military technology and innovation.
A Decade of Strategic Growth
The journey began in the early 2000s when Turkey embarked on a focused mission to develop indigenous defense and aerospace capabilities, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. Over the 2010s, the country invested heavily in research and development, established state-backed aerospace and defense companies, and began exporting domestically developed products.
By the 2020s, Turkey had emerged as a significant exporter in the sector, expanding into markets in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. Annual export figures grew substantially every year, with exports increasing from a modest $248 million in 2002 to $7.154 billion by 2024 - a staggering 29-fold increase.
Key Factors Fueling Growth
Several factors have contributed to this impressive growth. Government support and strategic policies, such as financial incentives, subsidies, and export support, have been instrumental in fostering the growth of domestic defense and aerospace firms.
Turkey's indigenous technology development has also played a crucial role. Advanced platforms like unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), helicopters, combat drones, and missile systems have proven competitive internationally. Companies like TAI (Turkish Aerospace Industries), ASELSAN, and Roketsan have become leaders in designing and manufacturing advanced defense systems.
International market diversification has also been a significant factor. Turkey has actively targeted emerging markets and countries with limited access to Western defense technologies, expanding its customer base and increasing export volumes and revenues.
The ongoing modernization of the Turkish Armed Forces and recent operational experience in conflict zones have stimulated demand for new and upgraded defense products domestically, improving export credibility. These platforms have demonstrated operational effectiveness, enhancing Turkey’s reputation in international defense markets.
Technological collaboration and licensing agreements with foreign countries have boosted local production capabilities while enabling exports. This approach leverages foreign expertise while building domestic industrial capacity.
Current State of the Industry
By the end of 2024, the overall turnover of Turkey's defense and aerospace industry reached $15 billion. The total exports from January to July 2025 for the industry showed a substantial increase compared to the same period in the previous year, reaching $4.59 billion - a 38.6% increase.
Haluk Görgün, the head of the Defense Industries Secretariat (SSB), stated these figures reflect the success of sustainable production and export strategies. He highlighted the importance of all companies and teams contributing to the success of Turkey's defense and aerospace industry.
The number of active defense projects in Turkey has significantly increased from 62 in 2002 to over 1,100 in 2024. The country's broad industrial structure, spanning from major contractors to SMEs, is crucial to the export ecosystem of Turkey's defense and aerospace industry.
A Bright Future Ahead
The transformation of the defense and aerospace sector in Turkey over the past two decades has been marked by its emergence as a global player in military technology and innovation. With a focus on sustainable growth, diversified products, platform-based solutions, and system-level export approaches, the industry is poised for continued success in the years to come.
Attracting Foreign Investment
As Turkey's defense and aerospace industry expands, the country becomes more appealing to foreign investors in the finance sector, who see the potential for profitable partnerships and investments in this dynamic industry.
Expansion into Financial Services
In response to growing investor interest, Turkey's indigenous defense and aerospace firms may consider diversifying their operations to include financial services, such as asset management, insurance, and banking. This move could further bolster the industry's financial stability and support its long-term growth, ultimately securing its position as a global leader in military technology and innovation.
