Turkey Defense Industry: Key Agreements at IDEF 2025
**Istanbul, July 24, 2025 – The 17th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF 2025), taking place from July 22-27 at the Istanbul Expo Center, has solidified Turkey’s status as a notable player in the global defense market. Numerous agreements were signed, showcasing Turkey’s commitment to advancing technological innovation and fostering international collaboration. While updates from the @Pars_Pluss account on X illuminated some of these key contracts, additional agreements involving significant entities like Kale Kalıp further emphasized the event’s importance in the defense sector.
Among the standout agreements was a contract signed by Kale Kalıp with the Presidency of Defence Industries (SSB) for the procurement of 5.56 mm Infantry Rifles, specifically designed to fulfill the requirements of the Gendarmerie General Command. This landmark deal was formalized with SSB President Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün present, underscoring Turkey’s dedication to equipping its security forces with domestically manufactured, advanced weaponry, ultimately enhancing its operational autonomy in defense capabilities.
Notable Agreements Strengthening Defense Links
Another significant agreement emerged from IDEF 2025 with Baykar Defense signing a Logistics Support and Sales Agreement with the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense on July 22. This collaboration aims to deepen the defense ties between Turkey and Azerbaijan, focusing on the provision of advanced defense systems and reinforcing logistical cooperation under the slogan, “Two states, one nation”.
Additionally, leading Turkish defense contractor STM entered into three strategic partnerships. The foremost agreement, with Forum Energy Technologies, concentrates on developing a Deep Submarine Rescue Vehicle and related underwater systems. The second agreement with Armelsan involves creating a national Conductivity, Temperature, Depth (CTD) system, enhancing Turkey’s maritime defense capabilities.
Focus on Energy Solutions and Helicopter Procurement
Aspilsan Enerji also made strides at the fair by signing a goodwill protocol with Aspower, dedicated to developing local energy solutions tailored for the defense sector. This agreement emphasizes the production of mobile energy systems essential for military operations, reflecting Turkey’s commitment to sustainable and innovative defense technologies.
A major contract was also established for the procurement of 57 GÖKBEY Helicopters, featuring the participation of SSB President Haluk Görgün and TUSAŞ General Manager Mehmet Demiroğlu. This acquisition is set to significantly enhance Turkey’s rotary-wing aircraft capabilities through the use of domestically produced helicopters.
Strengthening Protective Gear and Advanced Weapon Systems
In another vital agreement, SSB collaborated with Nurol Teknoloji, Garanti Kompozit, and İpek Savunma to sign a contract for the Personnel Protective Ballistic Equipment Procurement Project, aimed at supplying advanced protective equipment designed for the safety of Turkey’s security personnel in challenging operational environments. This deal highlights Turkey’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its forces.
Alongside this, an agreement with ASELSAN Konya for the Remotely Controlled Stabilized Weapon System Project was finalized. This deal is geared towards equipping security forces with state-of-the-art weapon systems, elevating the precision and effectiveness of Turkey’s defense capabilities.
International Collaboration and Agreements
SSB also finalized a contract with Sarsılmaz for the 9 mm Pistol Procurement Project, ensuring that Turkey’s security forces are supplied with advanced firearms. Sarsılmaz Chairman Latif Aral Aliş participated in the ceremony, reinforcing the collaboration between local manufacturers and government defense initiatives.
Turkey’s international defense partnerships also saw significant developments, including a Memorandum of Understanding with the United Kingdom for the acquisition of 40 Eurofighter Typhoon multirole fighter jets, aided by BAE Systems. This agreement, facilitated by a lifting of Germany’s veto, represents a crucial step in modernizing Turkey’s aerial fleet, complementing its ongoing F-16 Block 70 acquisitions from the United States.
Expanding Defense Collaborations in Africa and Southeast Asia
The IDEF 2025 also marked a notable bilateral commitment between Turkey and Djibouti. A Protocol on Military Cooperation was signed by Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler and his Djiboutian counterpart, fostering collaborative military efforts, thereby expanding Turkey’s defense presence in Africa.
Further north, Turkey strengthened ties with Southeast Asia through a defense cooperation protocol signed with Vietnam, enhancing collaborative efforts between the Turkish Ministry of National Defence and Vietnam’s defense authorities. This agreement signifies Turkey’s expanding influence in the region.
Strengthening Ties with Pakistan and Guatemala
Collaborative efforts were not only limited to countries with existing ties; a cooperation protocol was signed between Turkey’s Ordnance Factories and Pakistan’s Turaç, focused on enhancing cooperation in ammunition and defense systems, which solidifies Turkey’s defense partnerships with Pakistan.
Additionally, Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler and Guatemalan General Henry David Saenz Ramos formalized a Military Framework Agreement, paving the way for future military cooperation and potential defense exports between Turkey and Guatemala.
IDEF 2025: A Platform for Global Defense Innovation
The IDEF 2025 event, organized by the Republic of Turkey’s Ministry of National Defence and backed by the Presidency of Defence Industries, has witnessed unprecedented participation from 1,450 firms representing 44 countries. Major Turkish defense companies like ASELSAN, ROKETSAN, and TUSAŞ have showcased groundbreaking technologies during the fair.
Running until July 27, the exhibition serves as a global stage for unveiling innovations spanning land, sea, air, space, and cybersecurity, while simultaneously fostering strategic partnerships aimed at establishing Turkey as an industry leader within the global defense landscape.
Conclusion: A Strategic Focus on Indigenous Production
The numerous agreements forged during IDEF 2025, particularly the pivotal rifle procurement deal with Kale Kalıp, signify Turkey’s strategic emphasis on indigenous production, technological advancement, and international collaboration. These initiatives are poised to ensure that Turkey’s defense sector continues to thrive and innovate on the global stage.
As the fair concludes, the collective outcomes reflect Turkey’s ambitious vision to not only meet its defense needs but also expand its influence within the international defense arena.
