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As Israel intensifies its military operations in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen, concerns have been rising within the Israeli government regarding the increasing popularity of Turkish-made drones (UAVs).
In an analysis published by Israeli media outlet Jerusalem Post, titled "Advanced drones in Lebanon, Syria: Turkey's drone sales could pose a threat to Israel - interview," President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's recent statement in Turkish Cyprus that "We are among the top 3 most advanced countries in the world in UCAV technology"
We will continue to work with the same determination and excitement from now on" has been cited as a reflection of the growing influence of Turkish drones in the region.
The article highlighted that the proliferation of these UAVs could pose a "potential strategic concern for Israel."
Dr. Hay Eytan Cohen Yanarocak, a senior researcher at Tel Aviv University’s Dayan Center, expressed that Türkiye's advancements in UAV technology are not only a technological achievement but also a source of concern for Israel.
"The Turks are considered one of the most advanced countries when it comes to drones,” said Yanarocak.
"I have to point out that they copied and learned from American and Israeli technology through reverse engineering. With their low-cost labor force, they began producing drones at far more affordable prices," he alleged.
Yanarocak further emphasized that many countries have found Turkish drones appealing due to their low cost and advanced technology. "The Turks have entered a range of markets, including those in Africa," he said.
According to the Jerusalem Post, Turkish drones are already actively used in conflict zones such as Syria, Libya, the Caucasus, and Ukraine.
Yanarocak pointed out that Russia initially struggled to counter Turkish drones in Ukraine but later adapted with advanced technology and electronic warfare systems. "At first, the Russians didn’t know how to handle the drone threat. But later, thanks to their advanced technology and electronic warfare systems, they managed to counter it."
However, he noted that in less advanced regions like the Caucasus or Libya, no systems were able to effectively neutralize these drones. "In less sophisticated arenas such as the Caucasus or Libya, there were no systems capable of effectively neutralizing these drones. African countries observed how effective the drones were and decided to buy them. For example, the Ethiopian government used Turkish drones against rebel forces, achieving a decisive victory," he said.
"Over the years, they’ve built strong capabilities. It’s no secret that many countries around the world have become customers. These drones have already appeared on battlefields in Syria, the Caucasus, Libya, and Ukraine," Yanarocak added.
Yanarocak believes that Türkiye’s drone exports could affect Israel in two key ways. First, Türkiye has become a direct competitor. "This could affect Israel in two ways. First, from a technological and export perspective, Türkiye is becoming a direct competitor. Their drones are cheaper than both Israeli and American models, making them more appealing to countries that don’t impose ethical limitations on weapons sales," Yanarocak explained.
Second, there is a geopolitical risk. Yanarocak pointed out that Turkish drone supplies to Lebanon or Syria could change regional balances.
"The second concern is geopolitical. Erdogan has hinted at the possibility of supplying Lebanon with these systems. One day, we may see Turkish drones in Lebanese territory. And of course, there’s Syria. The Turkish defense minister has clearly stated that if there is a demand, Ankara will supply the Syrian army with weapons and ammunition. It’s therefore entirely possible we’ll also see Turkish drones deployed in Syria,” he concluded.
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