Turkey Achieves Over 80% Localization in Defense Production, Boosting Export Potential
Turkey has made significant strides in its defense industry, achieving over 80% localization in production, as announced at the SAHA 2026 international defense exhibition in Istanbul. Mehmet Kacir, Turkey's Minister of Industry and Technology, highlighted this achievement as a result of systemic state policies, investments in research and development, and the development of human capital. This localization effort has increased the share of domestically produced defense procurement from around 20% to over 80%. Turkey is now capable of independently designing and producing key defense platforms and components, including the KAAN fighter, Baykar unmanned aerial vehicles, and the Altay tank. The country's defense production has surpassed $10 billion, positioning Turkey as a leading global supplier of military drones and other defense technologies. 
