Throughout 2019, Turkey’s defense industry continued its rapid rise, delivering critical systems to security forces conducting operations both domestically and abroad. Under the coordination of the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB), state-owned companies, TÜBİTAK units, private sector firms, SMEs and universities collaborated to maintain existing platforms while also developing advanced technologies for future needs. These coordinated efforts significantly boosted the operational strength of Turkish security forces.

The year marked historic progress in air platforms. The Bayraktar Akıncı Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) achieved its maiden flight, positioning Turkey among only four countries capable of producing high-altitude long-endurance combat drones. The Aksungur MALE UAV also conducted its first flight, while Anka-S systems—operable via national satellites—continued to be delivered. New initiatives such as the Swarm UAV Project and the GPS-independent KERKES navigation system further expanded Turkey’s air capabilities. In helicopter technologies, the Atak Phase-2 completed its first flight, the Gökbey utility helicopter advanced in its certification program, and the first T-70 helicopter rolled out of the hangar.

Significant achievements were also recorded in naval platforms. The fourth MILGEM corvette, TCG Kınalıada, entered service, while the fifth ship’s construction began. Turkey’s largest warship, the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship TCG Anadolu, was launched, and the test and training vessel TCG Ufuk met the sea. The first submarines of the New Type Submarine Project, including Pirireis, progressed in their production and launch phases. Patrol boats, modernization initiatives and additional naval systems further strengthened the Turkish Navy.

On land systems, deliveries of armored vehicles, modernization of 169 M60T tanks, and the development of unmanned ground vehicle prototypes showcased important advancements. The Vuran armored vehicle joined the inventory, and several major contracts—including the Special Purpose Tactical Wheeled Armored Vehicle program—were finalized. In air defense, the Hisar-A system completed its final tests and reached the serial production stage. Thirteen Korkut systems were delivered, while the naval variant Gökdeniz was prepared for deployment. Turkey also received its first S-400 long-range air defense system.

Missiles and advanced weapon systems were among the year's highlights. The Atmaca anti-ship missile was successfully launched from TCG Kınalıada. Bozdoğan and Gökdoğan air-to-air missiles performed successful guided tests under the Göktuğ Program, while the SOM-B2 cruise missile completed its development and flight tests. Turkey also introduced the Armol laser weapon system and set a new energy record with the electromagnetic railgun Tufan. Precision guidance kits (HGK/KGK/LGK) and smart munitions like MAM-C/MAM-L continued to be delivered across platforms.

In the field of electronic and communication systems, the Advent Combat Management System was integrated into MILGEM vessels for the first time. The first Multi-Function Phase Array Radar (ÇAFRAD), electronic support/attack systems, jamming simulators and various countermeasure technologies were delivered. Additionally, the first T700-TEI-701D engine for the T70 helicopter was completed, and Turkey’s first Particle Radiation Test Facility became operational. ULAK’s national base station was used by GSM operators for the first time, marking another milestone in communication infrastructure.

Overall, 2019 became one of the most successful years for Turkey’s defense sector, with groundbreaking developments across air, land, sea, missile and electronic systems. These achievements reflect Turkey’s commitment to enhancing its independent defense capabilities and strengthening its strategic technological presence on the global stage.