Statements on the Defense Industry from SAHA Istanbul
Turkey's major rise in the defense industry and the role of SMEs in the global market were evaluated.
SAHA Istanbul General Secretary Muttalip Tütüncü evaluated the development of the Turkish defense industry, the role of SMEs, and the cooperation sought by countries that previously imposed embargoes, during the Anadolu Agency Technology Desk.
Europe's Largest Cluster
Founded in 2015 with 27 companies, SAHA Istanbul has today become Europe's largest defense and aerospace cluster with over 1,400 members. SMEs make up more than 80 percent of the members.
The primary mission is to ensure that SMEs strengthen within the domestic ecosystem and integrate into international supply chains to capture a larger share of the global market.
The Necessity of Capturing a Share of the Global Market
It was emphasized that the increase in the number of members was an organic process parallel to the internal dynamics of the sector rather than a planned growth.
For the Turkish defense industry to sustain its growth and carry it to further levels, capturing a share of the global market is no longer a choice but a necessity.
The Approach of Countries That Imposed Embargoes
It was stated that countries which previously subjected Turkish companies to covert and overt embargoes are now lining up at their doors.
Following Canada's restriction on UAV cameras, the sale of ASELFLIR systems developed by ASELSAN to the world and Canada sending delegations every month drew attention.
Indigenization and Quality in the Defense Industry
It was stated that the indigenization rate in the defense industry has exceeded 80 percent, but the need for external supply continues in some critical technologies.
It was emphasized that approximately 60-65 percent of the drones sold worldwide are exported from Turkey, and that quality and quantity must progress together in exports.
International Astronautical Congress
It was recalled that Antalya will host the 77th International Astronautical Congress of the International Astronautical Federation between October 5 and 9.
It was reported that the event will be organized under the coordination of the Ministry of Industry and Technology, hosted by the Turkish Space Agency, and co-hosted by SAHA Istanbul.