The 4th Global Strategies in Defense and Aerospace Industry Conference was held in Antalya, organized by Turkey’s Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) and the Defense and Aerospace Industry Exporters’ Association (SSI). Leading experts and companies gathered over three days to discuss global strategies, supply chain management, technology transfers, and market expansion in the defense and aerospace sector.
This year, the African market took center stage. Discussions focused on Africa’s growing role in the defense industry, regional security dynamics, and the development of local production capacities.
Eray Yükseloğlu the Chairman at RAFF Military Textile shared valuable insights on the continent’s defense textile needs, local production opportunities, and potential areas for collaboration.
Raff Military Textile is international police and military clothing manufacturer. The company has over 50 years of experience in the military textile field. Raff recently established it’s new subsidiary Raff Defence.
He noted that Africa is becoming an increasingly important export market for defense equipment and military textiles. Countries like Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and Chad are expanding partnerships with international suppliers to meet growing security needs.
Military modernization projects in these nations are driving demand for protective gear and tactical textiles, creating new opportunities for exporters. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is facilitating trade, giving these countries greater access to international suppliers and making market entry easier for companies.
Over the past decade, trade volume between Turkey and Africa in the defense sector has grown remarkably. While specific figures for defense trade aren’t readily available, Turkey’s overall trade with Africa has nearly doubled in less than ten years.
Recent developments highlight Turkey’s expanding defense trade with African nations:
- Kenya acquired six Bayraktar TB2 drones from Turkey to enhance surveillance and defense capabilities.
- Mali purchased Akinci drones, following an earlier acquisition of Bayraktar TB2 drones, to strengthen efforts against armed groups.
- Nigeria ordered two Turkish-built Dearsan offshore patrol vessels and six TAI T129 ATAK helicopters.
- Ethiopia acquired TB2 drones, which were used during the Tigray conflict.
- Morocco signed a deal for 13 Bayraktar TB2 drones.
- Several African countries have ordered Turkish-manufactured armored military vehicles.
Turkish popularity grows in Africa’s defence market
Turkey has emerged as a preferred trading partner for military equipment in Africa for several reasons:
- Affordability: Turkish defense equipment is cost-effective, making it accessible to countries with limited defense budgets.
- Proven Performance: Turkish weapon systems have demonstrated effectiveness in recent conflicts, such as in Libya and Syria.
- Political Neutrality: Unlike some Western countries, Turkey does not impose political conditions on arms sales, making it a reliable partner.
- Strategic Cooperation: Turkey offers comprehensive packages that include arms sales, military training, and defense diplomacy, fostering long-term strategic relationships.
The conference not only addressed current dynamics but also served as a platform for shaping future strategic partnerships between Turkey and African nations. With growing defense needs and modernization efforts across Africa, Turkey’s role as a key supplier and collaborator is set to strengthen further.
