This analysis is based on research conducted by Ogur Ermiş and Gonsel Gomușil, published in the journal Defense & Security Analysis (2023, Volume 39, Issue 1), to critically evaluate the failure of the industry and the challenges it faced between 1919 and 1950 in Turkey. This analysis attempts to lay a foundation for understanding the historical context that provides a backdrop for assessing the development of the industry. Furthermore, this analysis makes detailed comparisons with the current state of the Turkish defense sector based on recent data and my research findings. In this way, the analysis integrates historical perspectives with contemporary information to paint a complete picture of how the industry in that country has evolved from its flawed beginnings to the successes it currently witnesses.
At the end of World War I and, more importantly, with the establishment of the Republic of Turkey, the new state faced a monumental task of creating an independent defense industry. The initial measures aimed to establish various factories for the production of weapons and ammunition and building aircraft. Early attempts to design aircraft by pioneers such as Vecihi Hürkuş and the private initiatives of the TOMTAŞ company were pressured by severe financial instability and bureaucratic problems. Despite these challenges, the Turkish defense industry showed remarkable resilience, paving the way for future development. By the turn of the twentieth century, the Turkish defense industry was suffering from a weak industrial base and technological capabilities. Adequate infrastructure was not developed in the country, such as the ability to produce and develop defense materials. Bureaucratic inefficiency and issues arising from numerous rules and regulations mostly hindered streamlining processes and achieving growth. Complicating matters further were external factors — made possible thanks to the role of American aid in the Truman Doctrine during World War II. Although this aid was deemed essential, it led to dependency, resulting in economic pressures and leaving Turkey with little room for establishing a fully independent defense industry.
The Turkish defense industry in its early years heavily relied on imported technology and equipment. Domestic production was so limited that it could not meet the country's defense needs or compete internationally. Financial difficulties were widespread, with high maintenance costs and limited production capacity, causing economic pressures within the sector. This heavy reliance on imports and the attempt to establish a self-sufficient industry created significant barriers to growth and stability throughout this period.
The Turkish defense industry is currently evolving at an impressive pace and is undergoing significant modernization. It has transformed into a robust and specialized industry that has made great strides in aerospace, maritime, and land systems. Companies like Turkish Aerospace Industries, ASELSAN, and Roketsan have become leaders in the field, enabling Turkey to achieve complete self-sufficiency in manufacturing modern aircraft, tanks, and drones. This represents a radical turning point away from the initial reliance on foreign technology and reflects the ongoing developments in creating a strong, capable, and self-reliant defense capability.
The new Turkey is heavily investing in strategic technological developments that have transformed its defense industry. It places significant importance on domestic development, with modern fighter jets like the TAI TF-X, extremely advanced drones such as the Bayraktar TB2, and sophisticated missile systems originating from Turkey. The country now possesses a mature industrial infrastructure with modern facilities and research centers capable of developing further remarkable innovations and improvements. This advancement represents a qualitative leap from the technological and industrial gaps that characterized the early years of the defense sector.
Strategically, Turkey has not only developed a strong defense industry but also established strong international partnerships. These alliances enhance Turkey's position as a reliable source of defense products, adding significance to its trade balance and geopolitical weight. The substantial contribution of the defense sector to the Turkish economy is evidence of the strategic potential of the country and its ability to stand independently in the global defense market.
What has significantly facilitated the growth of this industry is the modernization of the country’s bureaucracy and strategic planning. At the heart of this administration and coordination system lies the Presidency of Defense Industries, SSB. The national defense strategy focuses on localization, technological improvement, and strategic autonomy. All these features sharply contrast with the bureaucratic inefficiencies of the past.
The Turkish defense industry has witnessed significant economic growth in recent years. By 2024, the industry has attracted investments exceeding $10 billion. This substantial influx of capital has greatly enhanced the sector's capabilities and its infrastructure.
Additionally, the defense industry has created over 75,000 jobs, significantly contributing to the Turkish economy. These roles extend across various sectors, including manufacturing, research and development, and support services, reinforcing the industry's impact on employment and economic development.
With Turkey's focus on reducing its reliance on imports and enhancing local production capabilities, its defense sector has become a prominent player in the global market. This remarkable shift from an import-dependent industry to a self-sufficient and competitive sector highlights Turkey's strategic vision and its successful implementation of advanced technologies and manufacturing processes.
The story of the evolution of the Turkish defense industry from its beginnings to present day is characterized by a transition from reliance on others and instability to development and self-reliance. The significant technological and industrial strides demonstrate a strong and resilient defense sector that now plays a pivotal role in the Turkish economy and strategic landscape. This is supported by improvements in bureaucratic efficiency and strategic planning within the sector, along with other factors that bolster this progress — starkly contrasting the developments from early 20th-century challenges to today’s advanced capabilities.
This is an AI-generated English translation. The original text is in العربية
PhD Researcher in Defense Contracting and Cooperation Policies
