Turkish defense and aerospace exports soar to new record in January

Türkiye's defense and aerospace sector has set a new export record at the start of 2026, continuing a trajectory of exceptional growth. Official figures released Monday show the industry achieved $555.3 million in exports during January, marking a significant 44.2% increase compared to January of the previous year. This strong opening month follows a record-breaking year in 2025, when total annual exports in the sector surpassed $10.5 billion, underscoring its emergence as a major global player.

Sector leadership hails strategic achievement

Haluk Gorgun, the head of Türkiye's Defense Industries Presidency, celebrated the results as a clear indicator of the industry's maturity and global reach. In a statement on the social media platform NSosyal, Gorgun declared, *"Having concluded 2025 with record-breaking achievements, our defense and aerospace industry has started 2026 with another record-breaking export success!"* He attributed the performance to a portfolio of high-value, advanced technology products and long-term, trust-based partnerships with international clients.

Foundations of growth: policy and technology initiatives

The remarkable export figures are framed by officials as the direct outcome of long-term national strategies. Gorgun emphasized that the success stems from "planned, stable, and visionary" policies enacted under the National Technology Initiative and National Competence Initiative, championed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. These government-led programs have focused on developing indigenous capabilities, reducing foreign dependency, and fostering innovation, transforming Türkiye from a major arms importer into a significant and self-reliant exporter within a decade.

Strategic contribution to the national economy

Beyond national security, the booming defense sector is now a critical pillar of Türkiye's broader economic strategy. The industry's shift toward high-tech, value-added manufacturing directly contributes to the nation's export goals and technological base. Gorgun explicitly noted the industry's "strategic contribution to Turkey's overall export performance," highlighting its role in improving the country's trade balance and creating skilled employment. The consistent growth signals strong international demand for Turkish-made platforms, including drones, armored vehicles, naval systems, and aerospace components, reinforcing Ankara's geopolitical influence through defense diplomacy.