Türkiye Defense and Aerospace Industry: Strategic Growth and Global Reach
Türkiye’s defense and aerospace industry has become a cornerstone of national security and technological independence. In 2023, its defense budget reached USD 15.8 billion (SIPRI, 2024), while exports surpassed USD 5.5 billion, placing Türkiye among the top 15 defense exporters worldwide. Over 1,300 member companies across 49 cities, including 29 universities (SAHA Istanbul, 2025), contribute to this rapidly growing ecosystem, strengthening innovation and indigenous production capabilities.
R&D Investments and Technological Capabilities
Türkiye dedicates 1.6% of its defense sector’s annual turnover to R&D. This investment drives innovations in missile systems, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and space technologies. According to the Presidency of Defence Industries (SSB), over 80% of defense projects rely on indigenous designs, strengthening strategic autonomy and reducing foreign dependency.
Programs such as MİLGEM warships, ALTAY main battle tanks, ATAK attack helicopters, Bayraktar TB2 and AKINCI UAVs, and the SİPER long-range air defense system highlight Türkiye’s ability to deliver high-tech solutions. The upcoming KAAN National Combat Aircraft, expected in service by 2032, aims to position Türkiye among the few nations with 5th-generation fighter jet capabilities.
Economic Performance and Global Exports
The sector’s total turnover increased from USD 1 billion in 2002 to USD 12.2 billion in 2023 (SSB). Its project portfolio rose from USD 5.5 billion to over USD 60 billion within the same period, reflecting strong domestic and international demand.
Exports grew over threefold in the past decade, reaching USD 5.5 billion in 2023. Türkiye now supplies defense solutions to more than 180 countries. UAVs, armored vehicles, and naval systems lead these exports, with NATO allies, Gulf nations, and African partners as primary customers.
Civil Aviation Growth and Transport Hub
Türkiye’s civil aviation sector supports its defense industry growth. In 2023, passenger traffic reached 214 million, with a fleet of 1,856 aircraft. Istanbul Airport, among the largest in the world, has a planned capacity of 200 million passengers annually and connections to over 350 destinations. The sector generated USD 35.8 billion in revenue in 2022, enhancing Türkiye’s global aviation presence.
Future Outlook and Investments
Upcoming programs focus on national fighter jets, satellite systems, hypersonic missiles, directed-energy weapons, and AI-enabled autonomous platforms. Strong government backing, skilled talent, and international cooperation agreements create opportunities for joint ventures, co-production, and technology transfer projects.
Technical Insight: With 80% of defense programs based on local know-how and exports spanning 180+ countries, Türkiye is advancing towards full-spectrum strategic autonomy in defense and aerospace.
Official Website of the Presidency of Defence Industries (SSB)
NATO – Defence Industry Overview
