Turkey has become the global leader in the production of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Armed Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs). According to the latest report published by the U.S.-based reputable research organization, the Center for a New American Security (CNAS), Turkey has been the largest supplier of the global military UAV market since 2021. Here are the details!

Turkey Surpasses the U.S. and China in UAV Production!

Based on comprehensive data from CNAS covering UAV production between 1995 and 2023, Turkey has shown remarkable progress in recent years. Especially in recent years, the performance of Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 UAVs in international markets seems to have propelled the country to the top of this sector.

The success of Turkish UAVs has been particularly evident in conflicts in Libya, Nagorno-Karabakh, and Ukraine. These successes have drawn significant attention in the international media, increasing interest in Turkish UAV technology. Additionally, Turkey’s short delivery times and affordable prices have played a key role in making it a preferred choice.

CNAS researcher Molly Campbell commented on the report, stating: “Over the past decade, global military UAV sales have rapidly increased. Turkey’s rise in this market is remarkable. The quick delivery times and battlefield success of armed UAVs have propelled Turkey to leadership.”

Here are some striking figures from the report:

• Since 2018, Turkey has accounted for 65% of global armed UAV sales.
• In 2022 alone, six countries purchased Bayraktar TB2 from Turkey.
• In 2021, Turkey overtook China to become the leader in the UAV market.

The report also highlights that, in addition to Turkey, China and Iran are also developing low-cost military UAVs. It notes that the U.S. has limited its global influence by imposing its own Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) restrictions, which hinder its UAV diplomacy.

In conclusion, Turkey’s success in UAV production is a concrete indicator of the country’s defense industry advancements. Turkish UAVs are expected to strengthen their global position in the coming years, with Turkey maintaining its leadership in this area.

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