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The head of Türkiye's Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) announced that Türkiye is targeting a position among the world's top 10 countries in defense industry exports, highlighting significant growth in the sector's technological capabilities and international contracts.
Speaking in an interview with Turkish media outlet CNN Turk, Gorgun noted that every step taken in the defense industry builds not only technology but also diplomacy, power, and prestige for Türkiye.
"Türkiye will be in the top 10 in defense exports this year," Gorgun stated, noting a $3.1 billion export figure in just the first five months of 2024 and more than $5 billion in signed contracts during the same period.
Gorgun described KAAN as a “high-tech system of systems,” with Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) serving as the main contractor. Test flights are ongoing.
"We ordered six units. We will produce additional units for the Turkish Air Force," he said. "We also signed a contract with Indonesia for 48 aircraft, and 12 more may be added. The exported KAANs will include an indigenous engine we aim to produce in the 2030s."
"There are other countries also interested in KAAN," he added.
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The defense sector in Türkiye now consists of more than 3,500 companies, according to Gorgun. "The local and national production rate in the sector has surpassed 80% over the last 20 years," he said.
He highlighted that Aselsan has risen to 42nd place globally. "Only 7–8 countries have more than three companies in the global top 100," he said.
Gorgun estimated that 90,000 people are currently employed in the defense industry. "We announced $7.1 billion in exports last year. This sector brings in $70,000 per employee," he said, adding, "Defense exports now account for 3% of Türkiye's total exports."
Adding that the Türkiye's fifth-generation KAAN fighter jet project is supported by advancements in indigenous engine development, "We are working on a 36,000-pound thrust local engine," Gorgun said, with an expected production timeline in the 2030s.
Baykar continues to dominate the global drone market. "Since 2018, Türkiye has led the drone market with Baykar, holding 65% of the global share," Gorgun said.
Other notable companies include:
"We are working to provide our soldiers on the field with the best technological equipment, and we are also serving allied and friendly nations," Gorgun said.
"Türkiye provides defense products to 180 countries," he added, noting that the diplomatic, strategic, and technological dimensions of the sector.
"Even when we paid, there were times we couldn’t get certain defense systems. We learned from this and developed our own," he said, referring to past embargoes. "Now, we are exporting our own systems."
Türkiye had the largest footprint at the Indo Defence Expo, participating with 29 countries. "Roketsan is one of the prominent firms representing us there," Gorgun noted.
He emphasized SSB’s efforts to support startups through exhibition platforms and international promotion.
"Signing new contracts means ensuring continued work for our firms in the years to come," Gorgun concluded.
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