With its innovative solutions and rising export success, Makina ve Kimya Endüstrisi (MKE) continues to strengthen its position in global defense markets, particularly in the Middle East. One of the world’s most prestigious defense industry events, World Defense Show 2026, is currently underway in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, where MKE has emerged as one of the most visited Turkish exhibitors.

Speaking to the press during the exhibition, MKE General Manager İlhami Keleş emphasized that discussions with Saudi Arabia may soon turn into concrete agreements. The MKE-developed TOLGA Close Air Defense System attracted considerable attention due to its effectiveness against modern low-altitude threats. Keleş stated that despite TOLGA’s current success, continuous development remains a priority, and new capabilities will soon be added to the system.

According to Keleş, TOLGA will be upgraded with directed energy capabilities, new weapon integrations, and a microwave-based system, transforming it into a much more advanced air defense solution. These enhancements are expected to be completed within a relatively short timeframe, significantly increasing the system’s operational effectiveness and export potential.

Highlighting Saudi Arabia’s efforts to develop its own defense industry, Keleş described Türkiye as one of the most reliable and cooperative partners in this process. He noted that MKE is currently engaged in several ongoing projects with Saudi Arabia, with the potential to sign three or four agreements in the near future. In this context, the BORAN howitzer is undergoing an export proposal process, while cooperation opportunities related to artillery ammunition are also being actively explored.

Looking ahead, MKE is preparing for SAHA EXPO 2026, to be held in Istanbul this May. Keleş underlined that the company plans to showcase entirely new projects rather than existing products. He added that the MKE stand will feature next-generation systems only, promising major surprises for visitors and signaling the company’s ambitious roadmap for the future.