In a move to establish a stronger footprint in the US, Turkish defense technology firm Pavo Group is pursuing new partnerships with American defense companies.
With expertise spanning artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and autonomous systems, Pavo Group is focused on expanding its innovation-driven approach in the US market.
In this interview, Pavo Group Chairman Alper Özbilen discusses the company’s strategic goals for collaboration with US defense firms, the mutual benefits of these alliances, and how Pavo Group aims to support the shifting needs of the US defense sector.
Strategic Vision for US Presence
Founded in Istanbul in 2003, Pavo Group has built a reputation for addressing gaps in high-cost defense solutions and for its dedication to national security.
Through its 2023 initiative, the Pavo Alliance, the company fosters collaboration with global R&D entities, creating a platform for developing innovative, flexible, and reliable solutions.
“The US market holds significant importance in realizing this vision,” Özbilen explained.
“Since 2022, our activities there have helped us strengthen relationships with key international companies and research institutions. With a team of Turkish and American experts based in California, we have made substantial progress in expanding our software capabilities — particularly in cybersecurity — to the global market.”
Currently, Pavo Group is working with US-based avionics and telecommunications firms to co-develop defense solutions and contribute to global security initiatives.
US Collaborations Driving Long-Term Impact
As global geopolitical tensions persist, Pavo Group stresses the importance of partnerships that are built on trust and aligned with long-term goals.
Özbilen views these collaborations as essential for sustainable growth and for enabling both Pavo Group and the US defense industry to meet evolving global security needs.
“The US’ central role in the global technology ecosystem is crucial for developing next-generation defense solutions,” Özbilen said.
“This process will enable trusted partners to develop and implement cost-effective defense capabilities in the proper concepts. To achieve these long-term goals, we are firmly committed to our five-year roadmap for strengthening Pavo Group’s presence in the US.”
Unique Strengths in US Partnerships
Pavo Group’s rapid growth from a startup to a multi-unit company with around 1,000 employees highlights its versatility in defense tech.
Its strengths include embedded systems, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cryptography, and advanced optical and RF design, which have been translated into various system projects.
“For example, we have developed integrated security solutions for critical areas such as border security and oil pipeline protection. Our expertise enables us to provide cybersecurity operation centers that enhance situational awareness to the highest levels,” Özbilen explained.
According to Özbilen, Pavo Group’s agility and ability to deliver tailored solutions set it apart, meeting stringent operational demands and supporting global defense with products such as anti-drone systems, UAVs, and communications intelligence technologies.
“This is not only a testament to our wide-ranging horizontal and vertical competencies but also a demonstration of our deep understanding of how different security organizations use defense technologies,” Özbilen said.
Future of Defense Technology
Pavo Group sees a significant transformation ahead in defense technology, driven by the need to address emerging threats and ensure robust global supply chains.
Özbilen points to recent conflicts, like the Russia-Ukraine war, as highlighting the importance of information superiority and situational awareness for future success on the battlefield.
“Today, we are witnessing one of the most pivotal moments in history,” he said. “This unprecedented environment leads to new challenges, such as disrupting the established balance of supply chains. At the same time, it also fosters increased motivation to confront new challenges and threats.”
By prioritizing AI-based vision analytics and real-time threat detection, Pavo Group aims to support decision-making in critical situations. The firm is also focusing on post-quantum cryptography to secure sensitive data and counter cyber threats effectively.
“We develop cybersecurity solutions to support governments in countering disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks, which can expose critical vulnerabilities, even with limited resources,” said Özbilen.
Pavo Group is committed to staying at the forefront of these advancements and building strategic partnerships that drive the future of defense technology.
“I believe that the advancements in cutting-edge defense technologies over the next decade possess the capability to propel humanity into a new era of prosperity,” Özbilen concluded.
“We will persist in our efforts to ensure that Pavo Group continues to be a significant contributor to this global transformative process.”
