Turkey has managed to emerge as one of the leading countries in the field of unmanned aircraft (drones) technology, making impressive progress in recent years.
This success is largely due to the strategic investment of the Turkish government, which has prioritized the development of the defense industry and autonomy from foreign procurement. Significant resources have been allocated to research and development, while the state offers strong support to large companies such as Baykar Makina and Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), which lead the sector.
Baykar, with products such as the Bayraktar TB2 and Akıncı, has gained global recognition, while TAI has contributed with drones such as the Anka. Baykar’s close relationship with the government, through Selçuk Bayraktar, President Erdogan’s son-in-law, ensures uninterrupted support and funding. In addition, companies such as Aselsan and Roketsan offer modern electronic systems and missile systems, further enhancing the capabilities of Turkish drones.
Early in its development, Turkey leveraged cooperation with countries such as Israel, gaining critical know-how through the purchase and improvement of Heron UAV systems. Partnerships with Italy and the United States have also boosted technological progress. Today, Turkey exports drones to countries such as Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Qatar and Poland, further funding the development of the sector. The successful use of Turkish drones in conflicts such as Libya, Syria and Nagorno-Karabakh has proven their effectiveness, establishing them as a reliable solution in military operations.
Turkey’s ability to build cheaper but equally effective drones offers a significant advantage in international markets. At the same time, Turkey’s strategic objectives are enhanced by the use of these systems to project power in the Middle East, the Caucasus, and the Eastern Mediterranean. Drone development also serves as a deterrent against countries such as Greece and Armenia.
To address this challenge, Greece must invest in domestic drone development, such as the Archytas program, and in acquiring advanced air defense and electronic warfare systems. Cooperation with allies, such as Israel, France, and the United States, is critical to strengthening Greek capabilities. Countering Turkey’s technological dominance in drones requires strategy, innovation, and enhanced international cooperation to ensure the balance of power in the region.
Source: enoplos.gr
