Turkish defense, aerospace exports top $11B for first time

Türkiye’s defense and aerospace industry exports topped the $11 billion threshold on a 12-month basis for the first time, marking a new milestone for the sector, the head of the country’s Defense Industries Secretariat said Friday. Haluk Görgün said the sector maintained its steady upward trend in foreign sales, with exports reaching $802.8 million in June, up 29.6% from the same month last year.

First-half performance

“Our defense and aerospace exports reached $4.67 billion in the January-June period, up 29.5% from the same period last year. Our exports over the last 12 months exceeded the $11 billion level for the first time, crossing an important threshold,” Görgün said. The latest figures extend the strong export momentum seen in recent years, as Türkiye’s defense and aerospace exports rose to $10.05 billion in 2025, soaring 48% year-on-year, after totaling $7.1 billion in 2024.

Sector growth and global reach

The sector has expanded its geographic reach, with exports reaching 178 countries in the 12 months through May, and NATO members accounting for 57.3% of total sales. Türkiye’s defense and aerospace industry has grown around indigenous platforms, including unmanned aerial vehicles, naval platforms, armoured vehicles, air defense systems, ammunition, and aerospace projects. The number of companies operating in the sector now tops 3,500. Görgün said Türkiye would continue building lasting cooperation globally through systems proven in the field and a deepening defense ecosystem.