The Turkish Armed Forces Foundation (TSKGV), one of the cornerstones supporting Turkey’s defense industry, recorded a remarkable 135% increase in donations in 2024. Speaking at the 4th Global Strategies in Defense and Aviation Conference in Antalya, TSKGV General Manager Bilal Topçu stated that this surge reflects the growing public awareness and national pride surrounding Turkey’s defense achievements.

TSKGV’s affiliated companies — ASELSAN, TUSAŞ (Turkish Aerospace Industries), ROKETSAN, and HAVELSAN — continue to expand globally with 74 international branches, boosting both exports and technological outreach. “Our efforts are focused on increasing defense exports. We are particularly encouraged by the growing interest from the European Union. Recent deals with Portugal and ongoing projects with Spain show that EU nations are now turning to Turkish-made defense products for their performance and cost efficiency,” Topçu noted.

He also announced that the IDEF 2025 International Defense Industry Fair will take place from July 22–27, 2025, across three venues — Istanbul Expo Center, Atatürk Airport, and Ataköy Marina. “We expect participation from over 800 high-ranking guests, including defense ministers and chiefs of staff from various countries. This year, products will not only be exhibited but also demonstrated through live shows and flight displays. Our goal is to elevate IDEF, currently the world’s third-largest defense fair, to an even higher global position,” he said.

Topçu emphasized that the TSKGV and its companies were founded entirely through public donations. “Today, our companies have grown strong enough not to need direct donations for operations. All profits and contributions are transferred to the Defense Industry Support Fund, in accordance with legal regulations. Thanks to new digital platforms such as e-Government integration and online donation systems, we have significantly increased public participation,” he explained.

Expressing gratitude for the public’s strong support, Topçu added, “We will continue expanding our outreach efforts in 2025 through new awareness campaigns and programs. Every donation contributes directly to Turkey’s defense strength and independence.”