Key Players and Developments:
Baykar: Founded in 1984, Baykar is a leading Turkish defense company specializing in UAVs, C4I, and artificial intelligence. Under the leadership of CTO Selçuk Bayraktar, the company has developed several notable drones, including the Bayraktar TB2 and Bayraktar Akıncı. These drones have been used by Turkish security forces in counterterrorism operations and have participated in conflicts such as the Syrian Civil War and the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. Baykar's products are exported to 35 countries, contributing significantly to Turkey's defense exports.
TAI (Turkish Aerospace Industries): TAI has developed the Anka series of drones, including the Anka-A and Anka-B, which are medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) UAVs used for reconnaissance and surveillance missions. The company is also working on the Aksungur and Anka-3 models, aiming to enhance Turkey's capabilities in unmanned aerial technology.
Global Impact and Export Growth:
Turkey's focus on developing indigenous drone technology has positioned it as a burgeoning drone-exporting nation within the transatlantic alliance. The success of Turkish-made armed drones, known for being low-cost and high-performing, has led to an increasing share of the global market. This expansion has been supported by strategic investments and collaborations, such as Baykar's plan to invest $300 million over the next five years to develop turboprop and turbofan engines for their drones, aiming to bring more component production in-house due to global supply chain issues.
Strategic Use in Conflicts:
Turkish drones have been extensively used in various conflicts, providing air monitoring services and collecting intelligence, notably against the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). Their deployment in international conflicts has demonstrated their effectiveness and has influenced global military strategies.
Recent Developments:
Investment in Engine Development: Baykar plans to invest $300 million over the next five years to develop turboprop and turbofan engines for their drones, aiming to bring more component production in-house due to global supply chain issues.
International Collaborations: Turkey and Serbia have proposed potential joint production of military drones, indicating Turkey's expanding influence in the defense sector.
Expanding Influence in Africa: Turkey has expanded its influence in Africa by supplying affordable military equipment, including drones, to African nations, cementing its role as a pivotal security partner.
