SAHA EXPO 2026: Expert Insights by Sami Atalan

Showcase of the Changing Battlefield: SAHA EXPO 2026

SAHA EXPO 2026 hosts Baykar’s new autonomous technologies, developed to enable different unmanned platforms to conduct joint operations, while bringing together global defense dynamics in Istanbul with the Eurofighter Typhoon and extensive Chinese participation. Before this major event, which begins today, we spoke withSami Atalan, Editor-in-Chief ofC4Defence Magazine, who examines how the fair will turn into a technological show of force for both domestic and international stakeholders.

Atalan’s insights are as follows:

This year, SAHA EXPO brings together the Turkish defense industry and foreign defense industries at the Istanbul Fair Center. Starting today (May 5, 2026), SAHA EXPO will showcase many new weapon systems and capabilities.

At this year’s event, which has attracted significant interest from foreign companies, the large Chinese pavilion is expected to stand out, particularly in unmanned aerial vehicles, missile, and ammunition systems.

Among other foreign participants, BAE Systems, the Eurofighter Typhoon, and MBDA (with its Meteor missiles and munitions) are also expected to impress at the fair. SAHA EXPO, which has become a showcase for the Turkish defense industry, will bring together surprises and the sector’s technological advancements with both domestic and international stakeholders.

Global Defence Chess in Istanbul

At SAHA EXPO 2026, we will be able to follow developments in light tank doctrine in land systems and in Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) threats. This packed fair will also be a productive event where many agreements are signed. In naval systems, Turkish shipyards will present us with many new designs, especially export-oriented ones following the Ada-class.

In aviation, we eagerly await seeing jet engine technologies and designs. Regarding unmanned robotic systems, we are particularly excited to see the new advanced technology air platforms capable of joint operations at the Baykar stand.

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The exhibition area will also feature significant anti-drone technologies. You can follow the developments at this extraordinary event, where we will be attending with a strong team, especially via the C4Defence and savunmasanayi.org social media accounts.