Turkey is dependent on the West when it comes to weapons, despite having a powerful and sophisticated defense industrial base. Although Turkey has been able to produce its own weapons, such as ATAK helicopters and other advanced aircrafts, some engine technology is still imported. Turkey will need its own engines to become fully self sufficient.
Turkey's defense industry has built momentum in recent years. The Directorate of Defense Industries, (DDI), has been established by the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation (TFF). It was founded in 1985 by the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation. TFF has supported the production of indigenous weapons over the years. The TFF is now able to provide a variety of conventional weaponry for its land and air forces. TFF has also created unmanned aerial vehicle (UAVs), as well as missiles, to improve its military capabilities.
Baykar Defence, a Turkish company, makes the ATAK helicopter. It has been tested for combat, and the TRLG-230 laser-guided missile is an innovative weapon that can be fired from an UAV. The Turkish Defense Industry has also produced a wide range of mine-resistant ambush protected vehicles, such as the TAK-Tesir, TAK-Murac and TAK-Sep.
Other high-end technological achievements include 5th generation aircraft, airborne early warning and intelligence aircraft, and defensive strategic weapon systems. These technological accomplishments will be crucial to Turkey's ability to continue its military dominance in the future. Turkey is not a US member but has signed knowledge-sharing deals with over 40% of the top 25 arm companies.
Turkish military decision-makers also have developed new strategies and concepts to enhance their combat effectiveness. For example, the TF has integrated drones with land-based fire support elements to improve their effectiveness. The Turkish Armed Forces found that drones were a force multiplier. They have also decreased the number of Turkish casualties. The TF also increased its capabilities in proxy warfare.
The TF also made significant progress in the area of guided munitions. This includes the introduction of the Koral jamming system, which is designed to counter air defense radars. It is being used by Turkish Air Force to disrupt systems of air defense in other countries. Other accomplishments include the TRLG230 laser guided rocket that can hit targets marked with UAVs on ground.
The Turkish Armed Forces have made progress in a number of Turkish weapons but it still has a lot to do before it can produce its own weapons. The TF has decreased its dependence on Western allies. There are still missiles capable of reaching Turkish territory from several countries. The Turkish government needs to make sure that these missiles are not used in a conflict. The Turkish administration will also have to address the weakness in its defense position as the Middle East becomes a dangerous and volatile place for military operations.
The TF has also created new concepts of operation that have contributed to the TF's expeditionary position. The Turkish TF has been deployed forward along a wide axis.