Türkiye has entered an era where military doctrines are being rewritten around autonomous systems, driven by a 127-fold increase in drone usage on the battlefield. In response, the country is shifting toward a fully independent sovereignty model in its defence industry—one that rejects digital enslavement. Speaking at the opening of SAHA 2026, Haluk Bayraktar warned that any technology whose algorithms and data are not locally sourced carries the risk of “techno-feudalism.” To counter this threat, he announced the launch of a nationwide technology initiative, with drone production centres to be established in all 81 provinces.
Defence Spending Hits Record $2.9 Trillion
Bayraktar noted that global defence spending has reached an all-time high of $2.9 trillion, with an annual growth rate of 8.1%—proof that the world’s perception of security has shifted toward “existential insurance.” While 73% of total spending comes from just 10 countries, Türkiye continues to grow in influence as a game-changing producer, with a growth rate of 14%. A 116% increase in defence spending across Europe, in particular, is seen as the clearest sign of the continent’s push for strategic autonomy.
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Rare Earth Supply Security and National Capacity
Drawing attention to the dependence of future technologies on rare earth elements, Bayraktar stated that supply diversity has become a critical component of national security. In this new era, where supply is being used as a geopolitical weapon, domestic production capacity is regarded as a vital “resilience test” for the survival of states.
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Localisation Rate Hits 83%, $13 Billion Export Target Set
Bayraktar noted that thanks to the National Technology Initiative, the domestic content ratio in defence has climbed from 20% in the early 2000s to 83%. He announced a $13 billion export target for 2026. Beyond this economic success, disruptions such as the Strait of Hormuz blockages and volatility in energy costs have once again shown that domestic production capacity is a key resilience test for national survival. Meanwhile, the reliance of emerging technologies on rare earth elements makes supply diversity a cornerstone of national security.
Drone Production Infrastructure Expands to 81 Provinces, Raising a New Technology Generation
One of the most striking technical details of the announcement is the project to establish drone production and training centres in all 81 provinces. The goal is to create the infrastructure needed for Türkiye to rapidly produce millions of drones in emergencies. Bayraktar stressed that the aim is not just to produce technology, but also to cultivate a “Technology Generation” capable of advancing it. He emphasised that military artificial intelligence has now become the most disruptive force on the battlefield.
The Horizon Extends Beyond the Sky to Space Research
At a time when the world is revisiting nuclear deterrence debates—long shelved after the Cold War—Türkiye is turning its focus to space. Bayraktar stated that through SAHA MUEK and the IAC 2026 processes, they will become one of the strongest supporters of Türkiye’s National Space Programme. He reiterated that in this new world order—where the illusion of free trade is fading—full independence is the only viable path.
Source: C4defence
