Türkiye’s defence exports reach new heights with 2024 European deals

Türkiye’s defence industry is steadily expanding its footprint in Europe, marked by significant achievements in 2024. One of the most notable milestones came in December, when STM secured a €123 million (USD 134 million) contract with the Portuguese Navy for the design and construction of two Auxiliary Oiler Replenisher and Logistics Ships. This agreement represents Türkiye’s first naval export to a NATO or EU member state, as well as its first major defence export beyond the Balkans and Eastern Europe. According to the Military Balance, an authoritative defence database published by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), Türkiye’s growing exports to Europe align with Ankara’s broader strategy to enhance its role in European security. Tom Waldyn, IISS Research Fellow for Defence Procurement, highlighted in a recent analysis that these exports not only strengthen Türkiye’s defence-industrial ambitions but also bolster its position as a non-EU contributor to regional security.

Türkiye’s defence and aerospace exports reached a record USD 7.15 billion in 2024, representing a 29% year-on-year increase, as reported by the Secretariat of Defence Industries (SSB). While official figures do not specify export destinations, Türkiye’s most successful European markets have been in the Balkans and Eastern Europe, with notable sales of armed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) like Baykar’s Bayraktar TB2 to countries such as Poland, Romania, and Albania.

Beyond UAVs, Turkish companies have achieved success in other domains. Otokar secured a contract with Romania for 1,059 Cobra II 4x4 armoured vehicles in late 2024, most of which will be produced locally. In the maritime sector, STM’s recent success with Portugal follows a 2020 contract with Ukraine for two corvettes based on Türkiye’s Ada-class MILGEM design. Additionally, Baykar’s acquisition of Italy’s Piaggio Aerospace in December aims to create further opportunities within the European market.

These achievements underscore the strategic importance of European defence exports to Türkiye. As Waldyn noted, sales to EU and NATO members not only solidify Türkiye’s industrial credibility but also enhance its geopolitical influence in Europe. Furthermore, successful bids against European and American competitors in highly regulated markets strengthen Türkiye’s reputation as a reliable defence partner. With over 1,000 active defence projects in 2024, Türkiye’s defence sector continues to drive its goal of strategic autonomy, even amid economic challenges.

Source: Military Balance