Türkiye seeks to boost contributions to NATO defense industry

Professor Haluk Gorgun, head of Türkiye’s Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB), emphasized the country’s commitment to sharing its defense industry capabilities with NATO allies through innovative and collaborative approaches.

Speaking after his meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte at NATO headquarters, Gorgun outlined Türkiye’s expanding role in supporting the alliance’s security needs.

Gorgun stated, “We had a highly productive meeting with NATO Secretary General Rutte. We discussed the development, dynamism, diversity, and extensive range of Türkiye’s defense industry.”

Advancing NATO collaboration

During his visit, Gorgun highlighted Türkiye’s contributions to the industrialization and security of the supply chain within NATO.

“We emphasized that the capabilities we produce in line with NATO standards could be more frequently integrated into joint operations and new programs. We are a strong ally and ready to take on greater responsibilities, ensuring sustainable outcomes for all stakeholders,” he noted.

Gorgun also recalled Rutte’s recent visit to Türkiye, underscoring the secretary general’s keen interest in Türkiye’s progress in defense technologies.

Defense industry capabilities and exports

Türkiye’s defense industry has achieved significant milestones over the past two decades, driven by strategic support from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Gorgun highlighted, “With a localization rate of up to 80%, we produce defense products that are not only for national needs but also for allied nations. We share these capabilities through open collaboration rather than merely transactional agreements.”

In 2022, Türkiye exported defense products to 180 countries, achieving $7.1 billion in total exports. Of this, over 50% went to NATO member countries, with Europe and the U.S. representing significant markets.

The defense ecosystem in Türkiye includes more than 3,500 companies, with 1,600 firms actively exporting systems ranging from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to advanced communication and electronic warfare systems.

Future NATO initiatives

Gorgun announced a series of upcoming NATO-related activities hosted by Türkiye, including multi-domain operational exercises in May and innovation-focused events in February and October.

He added, “The 2026 NATO Summit in Türkiye will further highlight our strategic role within the alliance.”

Türkiye’s contributions to NATO extend beyond product exports. “Our defense industry is equipped to provide innovative solutions for NATO’s operational needs across land, air, sea, and space domains,” Gorgun said, emphasizing Türkiye’s growing reputation as a reliable and capable partner.