News Briefing: Technology and Innovation in Türkiye , October 9, 2026
Leila Haddad | AA
This briefing covers developments in Türkiye's technology sector, including warnings about unchecked technological races and advances in space capabilities.
This briefing highlights key developments in Türkiye's technology landscape, emphasizing concerns over unchecked technological races and notable strides in space exploration and innovation. Each story underscores Türkiye's evolving role in the global tech arena.
Warnings Over Unchecked Technological Progress
Selcuk Bayraktar, chairman of both the Turkish Technology Team Foundation and defense firm Baykar, has expressed concerns about unchecked technological development, suggesting it could lead to 'a terrible extinction' for humanity. At the 77th International Astronautical Congress in Antalya, he emphasized the need for a balanced approach to technology, highlighting efforts through TEKNOFEST to build a fairer world. Bayraktar noted the increase in student participation in TEKNOFEST, with 1.6 million students applying, and reiterated the symbolic value of Bayraktar KIZILELMA unmanned aircraft.
Bayraktar cautioned against the pursuit of technology without considering its implications. He argued that while Türkiye has advanced in unmanned aerial vehicles, achieving full independence and prosperity requires a broader approach across different technological fields. He urged a focus on uncharted technological territories, aiming for strategies aligned with local needs and global cooperation.
Türkiye's Advances in Space Technology
Anadolu CEO Serdar Karagoz highlighted Türkiye's significant progress in space technology, including satellite production and plans for a lunar mission. Speaking at the congress, he noted Türkiye is among 11 countries able to produce communications satellites. Karagoz stressed the development of skilled young people as crucial to competing internationally, citing the TEKNOFEST generation's role in promoting technology for humanity's benefit rather than control.
Bayraktar also mentioned the creation of Fergani Space to further Türkiye's space independence, funded by Baykar's export revenue. This initiative aims to establish the Ulugh Beg global positioning system to support technological sovereignty in Türkiye and allied regions.
Urban Policy and Technological Independence
For city policymakers and municipal leaders, the dual focus on advancing technology and ensuring ethical use carries significant implications. Urban governance can draw from Türkiye's experience to balance technological growth with social responsibility, adapting strategies to uphold public welfare while fostering innovation. This balance is vital to manage the rapid tech advancements cities face and ensures independence from monopolistic tech control.
The discussions at the International Astronautical Congress highlight the importance of nurturing talent locally while participating in global networks. Cities, as innovation hubs, can serve as incubators for initiatives like TEKNOFEST, offering a blueprint for municipal engagement in tech-led development. As urban centers integrate these insights, they contribute to a vision that aligns technological progress with human-centric values and sustainable urban living.