Turkey's defense and aerospace sector continues to strengthen its export performance in the third quarter of 2026. According to official data released by the Defense Industry Agency, the sector achieved $634 million in exports during September. This figure represents a 10.7% increase compared to the same month in the previous year. For the first nine months of the year, total export volume reached $6.926 billion, marking a 15.6% increase compared to the same period in 2025. Over the past 12 months, exports have grown by 30% to reach $10.941 billion.

Defense Industry Agency President Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün emphasized in his statement that the sector's success stems from high-value-added products, engineering expertise, production capacity, and international partnerships. President Görgün noted that the sector's export-focused strategy continues with determination and that efforts to increase the defense industry's effectiveness in international markets are ongoing. Turkey's defense sector has achieved this success through the significant contributions of leading organizations including ASELSAN, ROKETSAN, TUSAŞ, Baykar, FNSS, MKE, and STM.

Throughout 2026, the sector's monthly export figures have shown relatively balanced distribution during the first quarter. January recorded $554.345 million in exports, while February reached $552.707 million. March saw an increase to $801.486 million, April climbed to $962.332 million, and May reached $992.062 million. By the end of the second quarter, June recorded $802.810 million in exports, while July surged to $1.120 billion. August declined to $511.4 million, before September recovered to $634 million.

The Turkish defense industry has increased localization rates in recent years, boosting value-added production. Organizations such as ROKETSAN, TUSAŞ, and Baykar have achieved significant localization successes in guided munitions, unmanned aerial vehicles, and aerospace systems. These developments have strengthened the sector's technological independence while enhancing its competitive position in international markets. Research and development investments and innovation initiatives have contributed to Turkish defense products gaining recognition at global standards.

Turkey's position in the global defense market has developed significantly over the past decade. Platforms such as the Bayraktar TB2 and TB3 unmanned aerial vehicles, ATMACA and SOM missiles, ALTAY main battle tank, and MİLGEM corvette have become preferred systems for international customers. The export of these products has increased Turkey's share in the global defense market. Additionally, Turkey's strategic position as a NATO ally and its technological expertise create a significant advantage in defense exports.