IDEF 2025 opens in Istanbul with grand display of global defence innovations

The 17th edition of the International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF 2025) officially opens its doors to visitors on July 22 in Istanbul, marking one of the most prominent gatherings of global defence and security stakeholders.

Organised under the auspices of the Turkish Ministry of National Defence, the event has drawn participation from high-ranking foreign delegations exceeding 1,000 individuals, Caliber.Az reports, citing Turkish media.

Among them are heads of state, senior military officials, and defence ministers from numerous countries, underscoring the fair’s growing international significance.

The exhibition will host defence and aerospace companies from 44 countries, collectively showcasing over 400 advanced products spanning land, air, sea, and cyber defence domains. The fair has garnered attention this year not only for its scale but also for the breadth of innovations on display, reflecting the rapid evolution of global military technology.

In a departure from previous editions, the opening ceremony is set to take place in the open air at Istanbul’s historic Atatürk Airport. The ceremony will feature a dynamic showcase of cutting-edge ground vehicles and aerial platforms, offering live demonstrations to dignitaries and industry observers.

Simultaneously, 14 advanced offshore platforms, moored at Ataköy Harbour, will also participate in the inaugural event, highlighting Türkiye’s growing emphasis on maritime defence capabilities.

Events and exhibitions will be held across multiple venues throughout the city, with forums, bilateral meetings, and live product demonstrations scheduled over the coming days. IDEF 2025 is expected to facilitate new defence cooperation agreements, foster industrial partnerships, and reinforce Türkiye’s position as a central player in the global defence sector.

By Vafa Guliyeva