Malaysia, Indonesia become key buyers of Turkish defense systems

Indonesia and Malaysia have shown great interest in Türkiye’s domestic and national defense systems over the last two years and placed significant orders. According to Forbes magazine, Indonesia and Malaysia have been major buyers of Turkish weapons in recent years.

During this period, both countries have become notable importers of the Turkish defense industry, preferring Turkish products such as advanced unmanned aerial vehicles, anti-ship missiles, and warships.

Indonesia has developed strong cooperation with Türkiye, especially in air and naval defense systems, and has begun to use locally produced Turkish weapons on a large scale. Malaysia, on the other hand, has made several agreements to use Turkish defense technologies in its navy and air force.

These developments play an important role in increasing Türkiye’s influence in the international defense market and strengthening the strategic relations between the two countries.

Indonesia’s interest in domestic Turkish weapon systems demonstrates how competitive the Turkish defense industry is in the global arena, while Malaysia’s demand for these technologies reinforces Türkiye’s competence in the defense sector and international acceptance of its products, according to Forbes.

Defense relations with Indonesia

• High-value orders

In just two years, Indonesia has purchased several products from the Turkish defense industry. In June, the Indonesian Navy expressed interest in purchasing Bayraktar Akinci and Anka UCAVs. Furthermore, Türkiye intends to collaborate with the Dirgantara Indonesia aviation company. Indonesia ordered 12 Anka drones under a $300 million deal with Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI)  in 2023, with delivery expected in November 2025.

• Defense system and missile orders

Turkish defense systems protect Indonesia’s vast maritime borders. In June, the Indonesian Defense Ministry announced plans to use Turkish missiles for its warships. Indonesia purchased 45 Turkish Atmaca anti-ship guided missiles, making it Atmaca’s first export customer. It also signed a contract with Roketsan to supply Khan, Türkiye’s short-range ballistic missile.

• Air Defense Cooperation

On July 1, the Indonesian Air Force Chief of Staff and the Turkish Air Force Commander held a cooperation meeting on strengthening air defense in Ankara. This meeting may have included details on air defense cooperation.

Defense cooperation with Malaysia

• Warships and agreements

Türkiye and Malaysia have signed important defense agreements. In June, Türkiye signed a contract to build three littoral task ships for the Royal Malaysian Navy. Türikye plans to start construction of these ships this year and deliver them within four years. Turkish sensors and Atmaca missiles will equip the ships.

• UAV and missile orders

In May 2023, Malaysia signed a $91.6 million contract with TAI for three Anka unmanned aerial vehicles to support air force and police operations. In addition, Malaysia’s Dayatech Merin offered to purchase Turkish Kuzgun anti-ship missiles at the defense exhibition.

• Defense Training

Malaysia is pursuing a yearlong program for the production of unmanned aerial vehicles and training of Malaysian personnel.