Türkiye Exceeds $10 Billion in Defense and Aerospace Exports in 2025
Victor Chen | AFP
Türkiye exported over $10 billion in defense and aerospace products in 2025, reaching 180 countries, as Türkiye prioritizes technology innovation and startup growth to bolster its economy.
Türkiye has reached a milestone by exporting over $10 billion in defense and aerospace products to 180 countries and regions in 2025. This remarkable achievement was announced by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during Türkiye Innovation Week 2026 in Istanbul.
The substantial export figures underscore Türkiye's increasing role in the global defense and aerospace markets. President Erdogan emphasized Türkiye's commitment to expanding research capabilities and supporting technology startups to boost higher-value production.
Erdogan noted, "Through our national technology initiative, we have built an immense research and development and innovation infrastructure that only a handful of countries in the world possess."
Ambitious Growth in Technology Startups
Looking toward the future, Erdogan announced Türkiye's ambitious plan to establish 100,000 technology startups by 2030, aiming for a combined valuation of $100 billion. This initiative is part of Türkiye's broader strategy to integrate advanced technology into its economy.
The transformation of Istanbul's Ataturk Airport terminal buildings into the world's largest technology and entrepreneurship center under the Terminal Istanbul brand is a testament to Türkiye's commitment to fostering technological growth.
Erdogan highlighted the necessity of investing in advanced technology, stating that transitioning to high value-added production is crucial for Türkiye's economic development.
Managing Investment Fund Investigations
In addition to technological advancements, Türkiye is tackling issues within its capital markets. Erdogan provided updates on ongoing investigations concerning investment funds. Since September 17, decisive steps have been taken to address alleged manipulations.
"We are conducting the operation with the precision of a surgeon," Erdogan said, pointing to the careful and sensitive efforts to rectify matters fairly. These efforts aim to hold those guilty of misuse accountable while emphasizing the integrity of Türkiye's capital markets.
Erdogan cautioned against casting doubt on Türkiye's entire capital markets due to issues affecting only 4.6% of funds. Such actions, he warned, could harm the overall economy.
Turkey's Urban Transformation and Economic Strategy
Türkiye's strategic focus on technology and defense not only positions it as a key player in international markets but also signals a transformative era for urban economic landscapes. The development of technology centers like Terminal Istanbul represents a significant shift towards creating hubs for innovation and entrepreneurship. This evolution can drive local economies by attracting investment, creating jobs, and stimulating technological advancements.
Moreover, Türkiye's approach highlights the necessity of robust regulatory frameworks to secure financial markets and ensure integrity in economic practices. By addressing challenges within its investment fund sector, Türkiye is working to strengthen its capital markets, thus ensuring long-term economic stability. Urban centers, as the epicenter of these initiatives, play a crucial role in sustaining these advancements through infrastructure, policy support, and fostering an environment conducive to growth and innovation.
Questions That Matter
What did Türkiye export in 2025?
In 2025, Türkiye exported more than $10 billion worth of defense and aerospace products. These exports reached 180 different countries and regions, highlighting Türkiye's growing influence in this sector.
How many tech startups does Türkiye target by 2030?
Türkiye aims to foster 100,000 technology startups by 2030, with a projected combined valuation of $100 billion. This initiative reflects the country's commitment to expanding its technological infrastructure and capabilities.