Türkiye’s Defense Industry: Regional Player to Global Supplier

Türkiye’s defense industry has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past two decades, evolving from a heavy importer of military equipment into a major global producer and exporter. With billions of dollars in annual defense sales, cutting-edge drone technology, and ambitious long-term goals, Türkiye is no longer just a regional power—it’s a serious force in the global arms trade.

A Strategic Shift Toward Self-Sufficiency

Two decades ago, Türkiye imported around 70% of its military equipment, relying on suppliers from the U.S., Germany, and other NATO allies. Today, that number has dropped to less than 30%, thanks to a deliberate strategy of self-sufficiency.

The push began in the 1980s, but it was geopolitical crises that forced Türkiye’s hand. The 1974 U.S. arms embargo, imposed after Türkiye’s intervention in Cyprus, first exposed its vulnerabilities. More recently, its expulsion from the F-35 fighter jet program in 2019—a response to Türkiye’s purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems—proved to be a turning point. Instead of relying on foreign suppliers, Türkiye doubled down on developing its own fighter jets, drones, and missile systems.

Türkiye’s defense industry now comprises over 2,000 companies, employs more than 100,000 people, and generates billions in revenue, making it a key pillar of the country’s economy.

Export

Türkiye’s defense exports have exploded in recent years, fueled by the success of its combat-proven drones and expanding partnerships in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. In 2023, defense exports hit a record $5.5 billion, a 27% increase from the previous year.

By 2028, Türkiye aims to reach $10 billion in annual defense exports, positioning itself among the world's top arms exporters.

Key export markets include:

• Ukraine – Baykar’s Bayraktar TB2 drones have played a critical role in Ukraine’s defense against Russia.

• Qatar & Saudi Arabia – Expanding defense ties, particularly in armored vehicles and drone technology.

• Pakistan – A major buyer of Turkish corvettes and helicopters.

• African nations – Türkiye is increasingly supplying armored vehicles, drones, and small arms to emerging defense markets across Africa.

What Türkiye is Producing

Türkiye’s defense production has evolved beyond small arms and armored vehicles—it is now developing next-generation fighter jets, long-range missiles, and advanced electronic warfare systems.

• Drones – Baykar’s Bayraktar TB2 has been a game-changer, proving its effectiveness in Syria, Libya, and Ukraine. The Akinci is a larger, more powerful drone, while the Kizilelma, Türkiye’s first unmanned combat jet, is in development.

• Missiles – The Tayfun, tested in early 2025, is Türkiye’s longest-range missile yet, capable of reaching targets up to 1,000 km away.

• Naval Power – The TCG Anadolu, Türkiye’s first aircraft carrier, entered service in 2023, reinforcing its ambitions to become a naval power.

• Fighter Jets – The KAAN, Türkiye’s first indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet, completed its maiden flight in 2024 and is set to challenge Western and Russian-made jets in global markets.

Challenges & The Road Ahead

Despite its rapid growth, Türkiye’s defense sector faces challenges. Sanctions and export restrictions from Western countries have slowed access to critical technologies, such as jet engines and avionics. Financing large-scale defense projects also remains a concern, especially as Türkiye’s economy faces inflationary pressures.

However, Türkiye is countering these challenges with technology partnerships, such as its growing cooperation with South Korea, Pakistan, and Gulf nations. It is also investing heavily in domestic R&D to reduce reliance on foreign components.

A Global Power in the Making

Türkiye’s defense industry is no longer just about national security—it’s a key economic driver and a tool for geopolitical influence. As it scales up exports, expands its military capabilities, and enters new markets, Türkiye is positioning itself as a serious player globally. 

With the continued success of its homegrown defense projects and a growing list of international customers, Türkiye’s ambitions of becoming a top 10 global defense exporter are within reach.