Italy’s RAI network recently featured Türkiye’s defense industry in its special technology program, “Codice (Code).” The show extensively covered recent advancements in Türkiye’s defense sector, focusing on key players like Baykar, Aselsan and the Turkish Aerospace Industry (TAI).
The program showcased the TB2 drone, Kizilelma, KAAN and the latest radar and electromagnetic defense systems produced by these companies. It emphasized how these technologies have made a significant global impact.
Baykar’s Selcuk Bayraktar on TB2’s global success
In the program, Baykar Chairman Selcuk Bayraktar, TAI General Manager Mehmet Demiroglu, and Aselsan Deputy General Manager Ozgur Taylan Sari shared insights.
Bayraktar highlighted the TB2 drone, noting: “An Istanbul-produced drone has become a nightmare for the Russian army. It has positioned Türkiye as a key player in global geopolitical frameworks. Baykar has become a pioneer in high-tech sectors traditionally dominated by U.S. and Chinese companies. The TB2 is by far the best-selling drone in the world.”
When asked about the success of the TB2, Bayraktar explained, “We started with a small team in the 2000s, working like a Formula 1 team. We are extremely fast, know the sector, and closely monitor our products on the battlefield. This is where our innovation stems from. All our drone systems are designed and manufactured in Türkiye, from sensors to engines and weapons.”
Future of naval drones, Kizilelma
Regarding the TB2’s naval version, the TB3, Bayraktar stated, “We are completing tests for the naval version and improving precision landing techniques on aircraft carriers.” We are very advanced and aim to finalize everything within this year.”
On the Kizilelma, Bayraktar shared: “Kizilelma means ‘ultimate goal’ in Turkish. Since our startup days, my biggest dream has been to develop the first Turkish unmanned combat aircraft. This is the future of air warfare. Such drones will eventually replace all existing combat aircraft. Our drones used in Ukraine and Karabakh were revolutionary, but Kizilelma will go even further.”
Bayraktar’s vision for Türkiye’s technological future
RAI’s program also highlighted Bayraktar as an idol for young Turks, emphasizing his goal of nurturing future generations of technological entrepreneurs. Bayraktar stated: “No one in Türkiye thought about dedicating themselves to advanced technologies.
There was no ecosystem for innovative development. We sparked a revolution starting with defense technology. Now, young people in Türkiye know it’s possible to create the world’s best technological products. We’ve made the technology sector a driving force for more equitable prosperity in Türkiye.”
Broader technological achievements beyond drones
The program also noted that Türkiye’s technological advancements go beyond drones, including developments in electromagnetic warfare with cutting-edge radar and equipment.
Aselsan‘s Ozgur Taylan Sarı discussed how the threat from small, low-altitude drones has increased. He explained that their signal jamming systems disrupt the connection between drones and their operators, and they’ve developed traditional anti-aircraft systems to defend against resilient drone systems.
Türkiye’s development of KAAN Fighter Jet
Lastly, RAI’s program featured TAI’s KAAN, a fifth-generation fighter jet.
Türkiye is now independently developing a fifth-generation fighter jet with stealth technology similar to the U.S. F-35.
TAI General Manager Dr. Mehmet Demiroglu highlighted that KAAN’s design, materials, and engines contribute to its low visibility.
