At the International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF 2025), Makine ve Kimya Endüstrisi AŞ (MKE) presented its latest products and strategic roadmap, marking a new era for Turkey’s historic defense manufacturer. MKE General Manager İlhami Keleş emphasized that the company, whose roots date back to the 15th century, is now celebrating its 75th year under the MKE umbrella while undergoing a “360-degree strategic and structural transformation.” He noted that new facilities and modernization projects in Ankara, Kırıkkale, and Samsun are building “the MKE of the future.” With an $818 million investment, MKE has become the top investor in the defense sector and the third largest investor across all industries in Turkey, strengthening its role as a key contributor to the national economy.

Keleş announced that MKE has reached export markets in over 100 countries, achieving $1.2 billion in total revenue and a record-breaking $640 million in exports — a 16-fold increase compared to previous years. One of the major highlights at IDEF was the export agreement with Indonesia for the Denizhan Naval Gun, which Keleş described as a milestone proving Turkey’s ability to produce and export technologies that were once imported at limited capacity.

MKE’s R&D initiatives have also expanded significantly. The company established an advanced research center and technology offices at three universities, currently managing over 150 ongoing R&D projects in critical technologies. Keleş added that, in cooperation with the Ministry of National Education, MKE has launched an innovative “school-without-classrooms” project to nurture skilled talent, and has recently won five international awards for best employer and human resources excellence.

Among the new systems unveiled were the Tolga Drone Defense System, Pirana Kamikaze Unmanned Surface Vehicle, BARKIN Loitering Munition Family, Smart Drone Family, Köstebek Microwave Underground Surveillance Vehicle, and advanced CBRN equipment. MKE also introduced its latest generation of sniper rifles, ammunition, and fuzes, noted for their range, precision, and lightweight design. These innovations reflect the company’s focus on export-oriented, high-performance solutions for modern combat environments.

With its robust investment in production, innovation, and human capital, MKE is positioning itself as one of the world’s leading defense industry suppliers, demonstrating Turkey’s growing industrial and technological strength on the global stage.