Turkiye ranks 11th globally in defense industry exports: President Erdogan

Turkiye is a world leader in drones production and ranks 11th globally in defense industry exports, the Turkish president said on Sunday, Anadolu reports.

Speaking at a meeting of the ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party in the capital Ankara, Recep Tayyip Erdogan said: “Turkiye is a world leader in uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) production and ranks 11th globally in defense industry exports.”

The country is on the verge of a great transformation and exciting economic breakthrough, he said, adding that “developments in our region will facilitate this process.”

Erdogan said the government had prepared a reform program for the “Century of Turkiye,” which he described as “comprehensive” that will “enhance our country’s growth potential and productivity.”

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In 2024, Turkiye’s defense and aerospace industry exports reached a record-breaking $7.154 billion, marking a 29% increase compared to the previous year and exceeding the year’s target of $6.5 billion by 11%.

According to Haluk Gorgun, head of the country’s Defense Industries Secretariat, Turkish defense products were exported to 180 different countries, reflecting the sector’s expanding global reach.

Turkiye also strengthened its presence in the world’s top 100 defense industry companies.

The country made significant strides in drone exports, delivering to more several countries.

Baykar, a key player in the industry, exported Bayraktar TB2 armed drones to 27 countries, including six NATO and four EU members, reinforcing Turkiye’s role as a leading supplier in the field.

The steady expansion of the defense sector highlights Turkiye’s growing influence in global defense markets, driven by technological advancements and strategic partnerships.

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