Erdogan noted that when implementing each defense project, it is important not only to create the final product but also to develop production capacities and the ecosystem. He emphasized that to successfully accomplish tasks on land, the country needs to strengthen its positions in the air and at sea.
The president also added that all stages of defense project development in Turkey are carried out using local resources—from research to serial production. According to him, Turkey ranks 11th in the world in defense product exports. Over the past 11 months, exports in this sector have increased by 30%, amounting to $7.445 billion.
Erdogan reminded that Turkey is one of ten countries capable of independently designing and building military ships. The new aircraft carrier will be the "big brother" of TCG Anadolu—the world's first aircraft carrier designed for strike drones.
The head of state emphasized that Ankara will gradually implement projects aimed at strengthening deterrent capabilities in various areas, including cyberspace. "Our investments are not aimed at preparing for conflicts, but at protecting peace and independence," concluded Erdogan.
In 2023, the country's naval fleet welcomed the universal landing ship TCG Anadolu, which is a light aircraft carrier and the first in the world equipped with strike drones from the Bayraktar family.
