President of the Defense Industry Agency (SSB), Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün, held a press conference during the Global Strategies in Defense and Aerospace Industry Conference, providing key insights into the current state of the sector and global market strategies. He emphasized Turkey’s roadmap in the defense industry and its contribution to increasing exports and global competitiveness.
Strong Government Support in the Defense Industry
Görgün highlighted the significance of strong state authority in Turkey’s defense industry achievements. He pointed out that the Defense Industry Agency (SSB) operates under the Presidency and that projects are managed by the Defense Industry Executive Committee (SSİK), ensuring stable progress.
Drawing attention to the unique structure of SSB, Görgün stated:
“The fact that the Defense Industry Agency is supported by its own laws and funding sources sets Turkey apart from other countries. In fact, it is a structure unlike any other in the world.”
Record-Breaking Exports in the Defense Industry
Turkey’s defense industry continues its growth in the global market. According to the data shared by Görgün, Turkey’s defense exports in 2024 reached approximately $7 billion, with $3 billion of this going to NATO member countries.
- The United States is Turkey’s top export destination.
- In Europe, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic have shown great interest in Turkish defense products.
- Additionally, the agreement with Portugal is a significant development supporting Turkey’s rise in the European defense market.
Regarding the collaboration with Portugal, Görgün stated:
“A country with a strong maritime history has chosen one of our projects,” emphasizing the importance of this agreement.
KAAN and Saudi Arabia Claims
Turkey’s KAAN national fighter jet project is progressing ahead of schedule in its testing phase. Görgün mentioned that comprehensive meetings are being held at TUSAŞ to meticulously assess the project’s progress.
Addressing recent claims that “Saudi Arabia will procure KAAN,” Görgün clarified that while general discussions on industrial and technological cooperation have taken place with Saudi Arabia, no specific agreement regarding KAAN has been made.
Joint Defense Projects with the Turkic World
Turkey is expanding its strategic partnerships not only in the Western market but also with the Turkic world. Görgün emphasized Turkey’s contribution to Azerbaijan’s defense industry modernization projects.
- TUSAŞ and ASELSAN are collaborating on the modernization of Azerbaijan’s Su-25 fighter jets.
- As part of this project, Azerbaijan will be positioned as a regional hub, offering similar solutions to other countries.
Görgün stated that such collaborations enhance the global influence of Turkey’s defense industry and that more regional projects will be implemented in the future.
Turkey’s Global Vision in the Defense Industry
With record-breaking exports, the rapid progress of the KAAN project, and joint projects with the Turkic world, Turkey’s defense industry is rapidly advancing as a strong international player.
© AeroHaber.com
Aviation News and Defense Industry news published on our website cannot be used without proper attribution.
