ISTANBUL – IDEF 2025, Türkiye’s 17th International Defense Industry Fair, continues to serve as a major platform for showcasing the country’s technological strength and expanding defense ecosystem. Held at the Istanbul Expo Center under the auspices of the Ministry of National Defense and supported by the Presidency of Defense Industries, the event brought together participants from nearly 100 countries, including ministers, defense officials, and private sector leaders.
Among the prominent figures attending the fair was Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat, who offered key insights into the progress and aspirations of Türkiye’s growing defense sector. Bolat emphasized the country’s steady rise in exports and employment in defense manufacturing and positioned IDEF as a flagship event symbolizing Türkiye’s achievements in innovation and national security.
Türkiye Poised to Exceed 8 Billion Dollars in Defense Exports
Speaking to members of the press after touring the exhibition, Minister Bolat expressed confidence that Türkiye would comfortably surpass 8 billion dollars in defense product and service exports in 2025. This projection comes on the heels of a record 7.15 billion dollars achieved in 2024.
“During the first six months of this year, we have already passed 3.5 billion dollars in defense sales,” Bolat noted. “Given that the pace increases in the second half and final quarter of the year, we are on track to exceed 8 billion dollars easily.”
He also remarked that the international recognition of Türkiye’s defense capabilities boosts the reputation of the country’s broader industrial sectors. “When we go abroad, the praise we receive for our defense products significantly elevates the credibility of our entire manufacturing base. If a country succeeds in defense, it gains trust in all industrial areas.”
A Workforce Nearing 100 Thousand in the Defense Sector
Minister Bolat underscored the growing economic impact of Türkiye’s defense industry. “Today, the defense sector in Türkiye employs more than 90 thousand people, approaching the milestone of 100 thousand. This is a powerful engine for national development,” he said.
Türkiye’s annual defense production has reached approximately 20 billion dollars, with exports delivered to over 100 countries globally. From Africa to Asia, and from the Middle East to South America, Turkish defense products are increasingly in demand. Bolat stated that this growth contributes not only to economic development but also to national sovereignty and regional stability.
IDEF Becomes a Global Stage for Turkish Defense Technology
IDEF has evolved into a global marketplace for defense partnerships and technology promotion. Minister Bolat noted that companies from Western nations, Asia, and the Americas were actively participating in the fair, a reflection of Türkiye’s rising profile in the global defense market.
“This event has become an international brand. It provides an opportunity to showcase Türkiye’s capabilities to the world. Our goal is not just to demonstrate products but to build sustainable industrial collaborations,” he said.
Targeting 100 Dollars per Kilogram in Export Value
One of the key performance metrics for the Turkish defense sector is the value of exports per kilogram. Currently standing at 68 dollars, the goal is to increase this figure to 100 dollars.
“This is not just an arbitrary target,” Bolat explained. “It reflects our ambition to move up the value chain. When you produce high-tech, high-value defense systems, you not only earn more but also gain strategic influence.”
Defense Industry as a Cornerstone of National Independence
Bolat stressed that the defense industry is not merely an economic activity but a pillar of national independence and resilience. “In recent years, our neighbors to the north, south, east, and west have all witnessed conflicts, wars, and instability. Amid this chaos, Türkiye stands as a beacon of stability,” he said.
He attributed this stability to the country’s strong military, advanced defense industry, dynamic leadership, and social cohesion. “If a country falters internally or experiences unrest, growth halts and regression begins. Türkiye has continued to rise over the past 20 years and is now a shining star in the Eurasian region.”
Defense Ecosystem Contributes to Broader Industrial Innovation
Beyond defense exports and employment, the sector contributes substantial technological value to other industries in Türkiye. From aerospace and communications to advanced electronics and composite materials, defense research and development drives innovation across multiple sectors.
“Our defense ecosystem boosts added value across the entire industrial landscape,” Bolat said. “These technologies don’t just serve military needs — they spill over into civilian applications, enhancing our overall competitiveness.”
International Recognition and Demand on the Rise
Türkiye’s drones, armored vehicles, naval systems, and command-and-control software are now featured in military inventories worldwide. Countries in Africa, Central Asia, the Middle East, and even parts of Europe and Latin America are integrating Turkish systems into their defense frameworks.
Minister Bolat noted that Türkiye is now among the leading nations in the Eurasian region for defense exports, and demand continues to grow. “There is no doubt that we will advance even further. The potential of our defense sector has no limits,” he said.
A Strategic Message to the World
Bolat closed his remarks with a call to recognize the strategic significance of defense capabilities. “This is not just about earning foreign currency. It is about protecting independence, securing peace, and asserting national will on the global stage.”
He praised all stakeholders contributing to this progress, including the Presidency of Defense Industries, the Armed Forces Foundation, and the thousands of engineers, technicians, and workers in the sector. “We owe our gratitude to everyone who helps Türkiye rise through strength, vision, and dedication.”
