Domestic Production Capacity Reaches 70% in Turkey's Defense Industry
Turkey's defense industry has made significant strides in reaching a 70% domestic production capacity in 2024, as outlined in the recent report "Türkiye Defense Industry 2024" by the Independent Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association (MÜSIAD). The report highlights the successes achieved in strategic products and emphasizes the importance of reducing foreign dependency.
Evaluation by MÜSIAD Defense Industry Board
The MÜSIAD Defense Industry Board evaluation in the report underscores the need to decrease reliance on foreign engines and power transmission systems in the defense sector.
Foreign Dependency Challenges
Despite progress, challenges remain in reducing foreign dependence on resources for critical components like engines and power transmission systems, particularly for platforms such as the main battle tank, Altay.
Importance of Domestic Engine Production
The report stresses the critical nature of enhancing domestic engine production capabilities to bolster national security.
R&D in Advanced Material Technologies
Fatih Altunbaş, Chairperson of the MÜSIAD Defense Industry Board, advocates for increased research and development in advanced material technologies, urging a shift towards domestic production and decreased reliance on foreign sources.
Enhancing Human Resources and Cooperation
Altunbaş emphasizes the necessity of developing training programs to cultivate skilled professionals in the defense sector and fostering collaboration between the government, universities, and industry for sector sustainability.
Strategic Projects and Priorities
The report outlines strategic priorities in projects like the Altay tank, highlighting the shift towards hybrid and electric propulsion systems as well as the significance of domestic production in critical materials like gunpowder.
In conclusion, Turkey's defense industry's progress towards greater domestic production capacity signifies a crucial step towards self-sufficiency and reduced foreign dependency, paving the way for a stronger and more secure national defense sector.
