Modern warfare has undergone a significant transformation, as evidenced by the conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, India and Pakistan, and the recent U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran. At the heart of this evolution is an increasing global reliance on advanced drone and missile technology, as well as state-of-the-art air defense systems.
Turkey, a leading military power within the Middle East, has positioned itself as a prominent supplier in the international defense sector. Central to this ascent is Roketsan, a company established in 1988 initially to support the Turkish Armed Forces. Over the years, it has developed into Turkey’s primary manufacturer of missile and rocket systems, currently exporting to around 50 countries, making it one of the fastest-growing defense companies globally.
Turkey’s defense industry has made remarkable strides, especially after navigating challenges related to Western embargoes. These restrictions, aimed at curbing Turkey’s military advancements, led to the establishment of a self-reliant domestic defense ecosystem. For example, in 2020, the United States imposed sanctions targeting Turkey’s military procurement agency after the nation acquired Russia’s S-400 missile defense system. Consequently, Turkey accelerated the development of an integrated defense network, relying heavily on a supply chain of nearly 4,000 small and medium-sized enterprises.
The results have been financially advantageous for Turkey, with its defense industry reporting billion in exports in 2025. Roketsan’s leadership has expressed ambitions to elevate the company’s global ranking within the defense sector, hoping to break into the top 50 and ultimately the top 10.
In support of this expansion, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan recently inaugurated several large-scale projects, including Europe’s largest warhead facility, a new research and development center staffed by 1,000 engineers, and additional infrastructure for producing ballistic and cruise missiles. This billion investment marks a significant step toward enhancing Turkey’s defense capabilities.
Furthermore, Roketsan has prioritized developing advanced air defense systems and missile technology, drawing on data from ongoing global conflicts to inform its research strategy. The changing landscape of modern warfare requires an agile response to emerging threats, and Turkish innovations reflect an acute understanding of this imperative.
As demand for more sophisticated defense technologies rises globally, particularly in light of recent conflicts and the depletion of stockpiles among major powers, Turkey’s position appears increasingly strategic. With countries in the Middle East actively seeking alternatives for defense systems, Turkey stands ready to fill the gap with its indigenous technologies, while also forging long-term partnerships for mutual growth in military capabilities.
This comprehensive approach not only reinforces Turkey’s geopolitical standing but also enables it to contribute positively to regional stability and security.
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