TEKNOFEST TRNC, held for the first time in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, has brought together Turkey’s leading defense and technology institutions. Organized with TRT as a communication partner, the event took place at the old Ercan Airport, hosting 132 participating organizations from public institutions, universities, and the private sector. Speaking at the festival, Defense Industry Agency President Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün highlighted Turkey’s remarkable progress in the defense industry.

Görgün emphasized that the 1974 Cyprus Peace Operation marked the starting point for Turkey’s modern defense industry. He explained that after the operation, the need for domestically produced radios and communication systems led to the foundation of companies that would later become global leaders. “Today, those companies have grown into world-renowned defense firms. We are now a sector exporting to 180 countries,” Görgün said.

He noted that five Turkish defense companies — ASELSAN, TUSAŞ, ROKETSAN, HAVELSAN, and Baykar — have ranked among the world’s top 100 defense firms. “Every responsibility entrusted to these companies has been fulfilled with excellence. Turkish-made systems and technologies are now sought after across the globe,” Görgün added.

The SSB President also highlighted the youthful and dynamic workforce behind the industry, with the average age of defense employees being just 33. He pointed out that many young engineers who once participated in TEKNOFEST competitions now run their own startups or serve as mentors to new participants. “That is the spirit of national unity — young people building the future of our defense industry with innovation and determination,” Görgün stated.

He concluded by noting that the success of the Turkish defense industry extends beyond the military domain, contributing to the nation’s technological independence, economic growth, and diplomatic influence. Turkish defense products are now widely used across continents, establishing Turkey as a trusted and competitive technology provider in the global arena.+