Türkiye showcases naval innovation with maritime-themed TEKNOFEST in Istanbul

Türkiye has unveiled a maritime-focused edition of its premier aerospace and technology event, TEKNOFEST, underscoring the nation's naval capabilities and technological ambitions. The special edition, branded "Blue Homeland", commenced at the Istanbul Shipyard Command and runs through August 31.

Organized under the auspices of Türkiye’s top defence and technological institutions, the four-day festival places a spotlight on maritime innovation, strategic deterrence, and the country's growing defence industry. The public will be able to attend from August 29 to 31, while the opening day featured high-level participation, including an expected appearance by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Caliber.Az reports, citing Turkish media.

A central highlight of the festival is a series of high-stakes competitions showcasing next-generation technologies in naval warfare and underwater exploration. Challenges include unmanned underwater systems, underwater rocket technology, and autonomous maritime vehicles—key components of Türkiye’s drive for self-sufficiency in defence.

Complementing these contests is an impressive display of naval hardware by the Turkish Navy. Notable vessels on exhibition include the TCG Anadolu, the country’s first amphibious assault ship and flagship of its blue-water ambitions, the TCG Istanbul frigate, TCG Burgazada anti-submarine corvette, TCG Orucreis, TCG Nusret minelayer, and the TCG Sakarya and TCG Hizirreis submarines.

Beyond military showcases, TEKNOFEST Blue Homeland also features exhibitions on maritime history and Turkish naval heritage, immersive virtual reality experiences, and a slate of expert-led conferences focusing on the future of maritime strategy, engineering, and innovation.

The event reinforces Türkiye's commitment to technological advancement and maritime sovereignty, aligning with its broader geopolitical vision under the “Mavi Vatan” (Blue Homeland) doctrine.

Following the maritime edition, the main TEKNOFEST 2025 will be held from September 17–21 at Istanbul’s Ataturk Airport, continuing the celebration of Türkiye’s rapid progress in aerospace, robotics, cybersecurity, and AI.

TEKNOFEST has grown into one of the world’s largest tech festivals, drawing participation from industry leaders, students, startups, and defence contractors alike, and serving as a platform for showcasing national capabilities on a global stage.

By Vafa Guliyeva