‘If they have Iron Dome, we will have Steel Dome,’ says Erdogan referring to Israel’s air defense systems

Türkiye has signaled that it will strengthen its defense strategies as President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s speech on Wednesday reaffirmed the country’s determination to eliminate terrorist threats both within its borders and beyond.

He said Türkiye is the world’s largest manufacturer in UAV market, and Turkish companies realized 65% of armed drone sales worldwide since 2018.

“If they have Iron Dome, we will have Steel Dome,” he said, adding that Türkiye will also enhance its long-range missile capabilities.

“The recent attack is a desperate attempt by separatist organizations,” Erdogan said, adding: “These acts of terror will not deter us from eliminating threats against our country.”

Türkiye’s defense industry becomes self-sufficient

Erdogan highlighted Türkiye’s achievements in the defense industry, stating that with more than 1,000 domestic defense projects and a project portfolio valued at $100 billion, Türkiye achieves significant self-sufficiency in the defense industry. He attributed this progress to long-term efforts that reduced the country’s dependence on foreign military suppliers.

“Our defense industry’s localization rate has exceeded 80%, compared to just 20% in previous years,” said Erdogan. “We have transformed into a country that not only meets its own defense needs but also contributes to the global market.”

“It is now much better understood how crucial our layered air defense systems are for our security,” the Turkish president said.

Türkiye’s role in UAV market, future defense plans

Erdogan also underlined Türkiye’s leadership in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), revealing that since 2018, Turkish companies have accounted for 65% of the world’s armed drone sales. Türkiye’s indigenous drones, including the Akinci and Kizilelma models, have become key assets in the nation’s defense strategy.

“We are no longer dependent on others for our security,” Erdogan noted. “We will continue to develop not just UAVs, but also autonomous maritime platforms and long-range missile capabilities, ensuring a layered air defense system to protect our nation.”

“If they have Iron Dome, we will have Steel Dome,” said Erdogan, adding Türkiye will also enhance its long-range missile capabilities.

President Erdogan praises TAI workers after attack

In response to the terrorist attack on TAI, Erdogan commended the workers for their resilience and dedication. He expressed confidence in Türkiye’s ability to overcome terrorist threats and continue its defense production without interruption.

President Erdogan called the terrorist attack on TAI in Ankara the “last efforts of the separatist organization,” affirming terror has no place in the future of Türkiye and the region.

“To the brave employees of TAI, I extend my deepest gratitude on behalf of our nation. Your determination to continue working despite this heinous attack shows the world Türkiye’s strength and courage.”

“Until we realize our dream of becoming a fully independent Türkiye in the defense industry, we will not stop, rest,” vowed President Erdogan.