Erdogan: Turkish defence industry writing its own epic

he Turkish defence industry, a source of national pride, is achieving remarkable milestones and “writing a real epic,” President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at the TEKNOFEST “Blue Homeland” (Mavi Vatan) event held at the Istanbul Shipyard Command.

Addressing participants and young innovators of the National Technology Movement, Erdogan extended his greetings to the youth: “I send my heartfelt greetings to all young people who share our desire for Türkiye's glorious march forward and contribute to building its strong future, to all our children.”

The president also reflected on his recent visit to ASELSAN’s Gölbaşı facility, noting significant developments in the defence sector during the company’s 50th anniversary year.

“We commissioned the Steel Dome systems, opened 14 new ASELSAN facilities, and laid the foundation for the Oğulbey Technology Centre. Today we are at the Istanbul Shipyard Command, and in two days we will celebrate the 103rd anniversary of the victory on August 30. Thus, we are celebrating our Victory Week with honour and dignity,” he said.

TEKNOFEST is Türkiye’s largest aviation, space, and technology festival, launched in 2018 by the Türkiye Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation) and the Ministry of Industry and Technology.

The annual event highlights achievements in aviation, aerospace, defence, robotics, AI, and other advanced technologies. It hosts competitions, air shows, exhibitions, and innovation showcases designed to inspire young innovators and startups.

Held in different Turkish cities each year, TEKNOFEST attracts millions of visitors and sees participation from international companies and institutions.

By Tamilla Hasanova