The Defense Industry Agency Chief Haluk Görgün underscored Turkey's strategic importance in the defense sector at the NATO Defense Industry Forum held as part of the 2026 NATO Ankara Summit. Görgün noted that the forum concept first emerged in Vilnius under NATO's umbrella, its foundations were laid in Washington, and it became permanent at The Hague last year. This year's inaugural hosting in Ankara as a main event symbolizes Turkey's recognized leadership in defense industry affairs.

Over the past 20 years, the defense industry infrastructure created under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's vision has established a comprehensive ecosystem spanning land, sea, air, space, and submarine domains. Organizations such as ROKETSAN, ASELSAN, STM, and TÜBİTAK UZAY operate across virtually all systems required by security forces. These institutions develop high-technology products in critical areas including ammunition, air defense systems, drone technologies, and satellite communications solutions. Görgün explained that these companies have assumed significant responsibilities in NATO's approximately 70 billion dollar procurement contracts.

Turkey's defense exports have reached 11 billion dollars over the past 12 months, averaging between 800 million and 1 billion dollars monthly. These figures have elevated Turkey to the 11th position globally among defense industry exporters. Görgün emphasized that export growth rates have reached approximately 30 percent and that this success has been achieved not only through product sales but also by presenting long-term business models. Systems developed with friendly and allied nations stand out for their cost-effectiveness and high added value.

Turkey's role in NATO's deterrence architecture is supported by the proven operational success of developed platforms. The Kızılelma unmanned combat aircraft exemplifies next-generation systems that will be effective in future warfare environments. Görgün stated that Turkey possesses technology and industry capable of producing solutions against threats in hot environments and has tested these systems operationally. The young human capital with an average age of 34, high engineering capabilities, and serial production dynamism have established Turkey as a trusted business partner among NATO allies.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte's two visits to Turkish defense companies demonstrate international recognition of the Turkish defense industry. Görgün disclosed that 56 percent of last year's exports were directed to NATO and European Union member states. Turkey plays an active role in discussions on secure supply chains, joint production, and technology cooperation, demonstrating its commitment to joint production and development for a stronger Alliance.