The year 2023 marked a turning point for Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), as Türkiye’s indigenous aircraft gained recognition both domestically and internationally. The successful first flights of the National Combat Aircraft KAAN, the ATAK II attack helicopter, the ANKA III unmanned aerial vehicle, and the HÜRJET advanced trainer highlighted the country’s growing strength in aerospace and defense. These achievements positioned Türkiye as a rising power in the global aviation industry.

TUSAŞ’s progress extended beyond product development. By delivering customer-focused solutions and forging strategic partnerships, the company achieved a remarkable increase in exports. In 2022, exports totaled $553 million; in 2023, that figure rose by 56% to $864 million. This leap underscored the growing international demand for Türkiye’s defense and aerospace products.

Another key factor in this success was President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s active diplomacy, which promoted Turkish defense products abroad. Bilateral agreements and state-level engagements across Africa, Asia-Pacific, Central Asia, the Caucasus, the United States, and Europe helped strengthen TUSAŞ’s export performance.

The operational use of these platforms by the Turkish Armed Forces, coupled with positive feedback from international users, reinforced global confidence in Türkiye’s defense capabilities. Furthermore, TUSAŞ’s investment in human resources and technological infrastructure enhanced its production capacity and efficiency, making the company a stronger player in the competitive global market.

Ultimately, TUSAŞ’s accomplishments in 2023 demonstrated Türkiye’s ability to establish itself as a formidable force in aerospace and defense. These achievements not only highlight the country’s technological independence but also lay the foundation for greater export success and international influence in the coming years.