Despite the presence of a formidable and advanced defense industrial base, Turkey has been forced to rely on the West in the field of weapons. The country has produced some indigenous weapons, including ATAK-hailer helicopters. However, the engine technology for some of its more advanced aircrafts remains imported. Turkey will have to develop its own engines if it wants to be fully self-sufficient.
Turkey's defense industry has built momentum in recent years. The Turkish Armed Forces Foundation (TFF) launched the Directorate of Defense Industries (DDI) in 1985. The TFF has been a supporter of indigenous weapon production over the years. 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.
Baykar Defence in Turkey 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. TAK - Tesir, TAK -Murac, and TAK - Sep are all examples of mine-resistant ambush protection vehicles produced by the Turkish Defense Industry.
Additional technological breakthroughs include the 5th generation aircraft and airborne early warning, intelligence, and aircraft and defense 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 United States member, but it has signed knowledge sharing agreements with over 40% the top 25 arms companies.
Turkish military decision makers have also created a variety new concepts and strategies 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 has also increased its ability to conduct proxy warfare.
The TF has also made progress in the field of guided munitions. This includes the introduction the Koral jamming technology, which is intended to counter air defense radars. It is used by Turkey's Air Force to destroy air defense systems from other countries. Other achievements include the TRLG230 laserguided rocket. It can hit targets that have been marked by UAVs.
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 does not depend on any Western allies. However, missiles can still be used by several countries to reach Turkish territories. In the event of a conflict, the Turkish government will have to protect them. The Turkish government will also need to address its defense deficiencies as the Middle East becomes dangerous and volatile 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 forward deployed across a broad axis.