Turkish defense industry sets new export targets, UCAV prices reach record high
The SAHA EXPO 2024 International Defense and Aerospace Exhibition continues at Istanbul Fair Center, Turkiye on October 23, 2024. (AA Photo)
oTürkiye’s defense industry aims to increase exports to $7.3 billion in 2025, according to Secretariat of Defence Industries Chairman Professor Haluk Gorgun.
Speaking at the Kocaeli Chamber of Industry meeting, Gorgun outlined the sector’s growth, ambitious targets, and record achievements in drone and high-tech defense exports.
Record high value for UCAV exports
Gorgun revealed that the per-kilogram export value of Türkiye’s unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) has exceeded $10,000, reflecting the high value of the country’s advanced technology products.
He noted that electro-optical systems are valued at $20,000 per kilogram, and active electronically scanned array (AESA) nose radars reach $30,000 per kilogram.
“Türkiye competes globally with its high-tech, high-value products,” Gorgun stated, emphasizing the country’s increasing influence in international defense sectors.
Growth and export targets for 2025
Gorgun announced that Türkiye’s defense industry grew by 20% annually, with exports reaching $5.5 billion in 2023. He projected exports would surpass $6.5 billion in 2024 and outlined a target of $7.3 billion for 2025.
The workforce is expected to increase to 110,000 employees, while the domestic production rate aims to reach 82%.
“Our main goal is to develop Türkiye’s defense industry and strengthen local and national equipment for our armed forces,” Gorgun said.
Türkiye’s global reach in defense exports
The defense sector has achieved exports across five continents, with products reaching 185 countries. Gorgun highlighted that Türkiye leads the global drone market, holding a 65% share since 2018.
Notably, the country has delivered over 1,200 weapon systems to 24 nations, and its Atak helicopters are now used by eight countries.
“We have become a sector that can export anywhere in the world, with over 230 different products and a strong global presence,” Gorgun said, attributing the success to overcoming years of trade embargoes.
