Mehmet Demiroğlu, General Manager of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), announced the company’s goal to expand its defense industry exports to the US and European markets. Speaking to journalists on February 1 in Antalya, Demiroğlu stated that the export of the Atak helicopter to Germany is a strategic priority for the company.
“My goal is to sell the Atak helicopter to Germany… I believe one day they will knock on our door,” he said.
Atak Helicopter: High Performance and Success Story
In 2007, TUSAŞ led the development, integration, testing, and production processes of the attack helicopter under a contract with the Defense Industry Agency (SSB). The Atak helicopter was designed to withstand high altitudes and hot weather conditions. It made its first flight in 2011, and the first deliveries were made to the Turkish Land Forces in 2014. The helicopter gained international attention by being exported to countries such as the Philippines and Nigeria.
Aksungur UAV Presented to the US Market
Demiroğlu noted that TUSAŞ aims to expand its success in the African market to the American defense market.
“For example, we offered the Aksungur UAV to the US to protect the Mexican border,” he said.
Key Features of the Aksungur UAV:
- Can fly at an altitude of 40,000 feet.
- Has a payload capacity of 1 ton.
- Can be used for reconnaissance, surveillance, and strike missions, with a 41-hour flight endurance.
- Suitable for humanitarian operations such as search and rescue and disaster response.
Export Goals Amid Global Defense Industry Challenges
Demiroğlu emphasized that despite global supply chain issues, TUSAŞ remains focused on exports.
“We aim to increase our exports this year… However, global production challenges apply to us as well,” he said. “Nevertheless, we have performed well as Turkey.”
The company not only exports defense products but also provides maintenance, repair, and training services to African and Middle Eastern countries.
Turkey’s Strength in the Defense Industry
Mehmet Demiroğlu highlighted the level of progress Turkey has made in the defense industry, noting that companies that previously did not sell products to Turkey are now eager to cooperate.
“When NATO officials and defense ministers from other countries visit our facilities, they find it hard to believe what they see,” he said. “When they realize how far Turkey has come in this area, they look for ways to collaborate with us.”
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