SAHA 2026 Defence and Aerospace Expo in Istanbul

SAHA 2026 defence and aerospace expo will take place from 5 to 9 May 2026 in Istanbul. Organised by SAHA Istanbul, Europe’s largest defence and aerospace cluster, the event will highlight Türkiye’s rapid technological growth and expanding role in the global defence market.

Key Facts

Event Dates: 5–9 May 2026
Venue: Istanbul, Türkiye
Organiser: SAHA Istanbul – Europe’s largest defence and aerospace cluster
Expected Participants: 1,500 companies from 120+ countries
Expected Visitors: Over 200,000
B2B Meetings: 25,000+ planned
Theme: Rule Technology, Shape the Future

Global Stage for Innovation

Since 2018, SAHA Expo has evolved from a national showcase into a global hub for cooperation in defence, aviation, maritime, space, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence (AI). The event connects Turkish and international firms, promotes joint ventures, and strengthens supply chain integration.

The first SAHA Expo in 2018 hosted 183 companies from 12 countries and around 600 B2B meetings with 13,000 visitors. By 2021, participation rose to 600 companies from 30 countries, attracting 25,000 visitors. In 2022, 957 firms from 109 countries took part, and 114 agreements worth over $1 billion were signed.

At SAHA 2024, the event achieved record numbers: 1,478 companies from 120+ countries, 101,337 visitors, and 133 agreements valued at $6.2 billion. These milestones underscore Türkiye’s growing influence in the global defence and aerospace market.

Next-Generation Systems and Technologies

SAHA 2026 will feature AI-powered systems, unmanned land, air, and naval vehicles, autonomous technologies, electronic warfare systems, and advanced ammunition designs.

It will also provide a platform for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to join international value chains and explore partnerships with global defence primes. Interactive displays, panels, and technology showcases will give participants a hands-on experience of space technologies, AI integration, and cyber resilience.

Strategic Role in Türkiye’s Defence Ecosystem

The SAHA 2026 defence expo is not just an exhibition but a reflection of Türkiye’s ambition to lead in advanced defence technologies. It highlights the nation’s strong R&D capacity, export potential, and commitment to technological independence under the Milli Teknoloji Hamlesi (National Technology Initiative).

With 1,500 companies from 120+ countries across a 100,000-square-metre exhibition area, the event aims to host over 25,000 B2B meetings and welcome 200,000 visitors. SAHA 2026 will further position Istanbul as a centre for global defence cooperation and industrial innovation.