Turkey's advanced defense industrial base is a strong asset, but it has had to rely on Western weapons technology. Although the country has produced its own weapons, such ATAK helicopters or other aircrafts of high technology, engine technology is still imported. Turkey will need its own engines to become fully self sufficient.
In recent years, Turkey's defense industry has seen significant growth. In 1985, the Directorate of Defense Industries of Turkey (DDI), was launched by the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation. TFF has supported the production of indigenous weapons over the years. TFF can now provide conventional weapons for its air and land 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 extensively tested for combat. The TRLG230 laser guided missile can be fired directly from an UAV. TAK–Tesir is one of many mine-resistant vehicles manufactured by Turkey's Defense Industry.
Additional technological breakthroughs include the 5th generation aircraft and airborne early warning, intelligence, and aircraft and defense strategic weapon systems. These technological advances will be vital for Turkey to maintain its military power in the immediate 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. To enhance their combat effectiveness, the TF has integrated drones into land-based fire support systems to enhance their effectiveness. The Turkish Armed Forces has found that drones are a force multiplier. They have also reduced the number Turkish casualties. The TF has also increased its ability to conduct proxy warfare.
The TF is also making progress in the realm of guided munitions. This includes the introduction in the Koral jamming systems, which are designed to combat air defense radars. It is reportedly used by the Turkish Air Force to disrupt air defense systems in other countries. The TRLG230 laser-guided rocket can also be used to hit targets marked by UAVs.
Although the Turkish Armed Forces made significant progress in developing a variety Turkish weapons it still has much work to do to create its own weapons. The TF has decreased its dependence on 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. Additionally, the Turkish administration must address the deficit in its defense posture as the Middle East becomes more volatile and dangerous for military operations.
The TF has also come up with new concepts for operations, which have helped it improve its expeditionary role. The Turkish TF was deployed on a broad axis.