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.
The Turkish defense industry has gained momentum over the past few years. The Directorate of Defense Industries was created by the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation in 1985. TFF has over the years supported indigenous weapons production. TFF can now provide conventional weapons for its air and land forces. The TFF also has a variety of unmanned aerial vehicles and missiles that it can use to enhance its military capabilities.
The ATAK helicopter, for instance, is manufactured by Turkish company Baykar Defence. It has been extensively tested for combat. The TRLG230 laser guided missile can be fired directly from an UAV. TAK–Tesir (TAK-Murac), TAK–Sep and TAK–Tesir (TAK-Tesir) are some of the many mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle designs that were developed by the Turkish Defense Industry.
Other high-end technological achievements include 5th generation aircraft, airborne early warning and intelligence aircraft, and defensive strategic weapon systems. These technological achievements will be critical for Turkey to remain a military power in the near 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 came up with new concepts and strategies to improve combat effectiveness. To increase their effectiveness, the TF integrates drones with ground-based fire support components. The Turkish Armed Forces has found that drones are a force multiplier. They have also reduced the number of Turkish casualties. The TF has also increased its ability to conduct proxy warfare.
The TF also made significant progress in the area of guided munitions. This includes the introduction and use of the Koral jamming, which is designed against 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.
Although the Turkish Armed Forces has advanced a variety of Turkish weapons, it still has a long way to go to produce its own weapons. However, the TF has less dependence on Western allies. Numerous countries can still reach Turkish territory with their missiles. Therefore, the Turkish government must ensure they are safe in the event that there is 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.
New concepts of operations have been developed by the TF, which has contributed to its expeditionary position. The Turkish TF was deployed on a broad axis.