Two of Türkiye's leading defence companies have said they are stepping up efforts to forge new partnerships with NATO allies, arguing that the country's production capacity and advanced defence technologies can help meet Europe's growing security needs as the alliance expands defence cooperation.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Defense Industry Forum in Ankara, held as part of the 36th NATO Heads of State and Government Summit on Tuesday, Roketsan CEO Murat Ikinci said Türkiye's established defence supply chain could quickly support Europe's rearmament efforts through joint production with leading defence companies.
"One of the most important issues being discussed is using Türkiye's existing defence industry architecture and defence industry capacity for joint production with European countries," Ikinci said.
He said Türkiye's manufacturing infrastructure and production capabilities could make a significant contribution to meeting the defence requirements of NATO members.
According to Ikinci, discussions at the forum focused on establishing long-term partnerships with major European defence companies in missile systems, ammunition, smart munitions and drone technologies.
"We are trying to physically sign these so that at least the first step can be taken for future cooperation," he said.
Havelsan bets on AI and software exports
Havelsan CEO Mehmet Akif Nacar said the defence software company expects to transfer more technologies to NATO countries in the coming years, building on its growing cooperation with the alliance.
"We contribute technology to NATO, and we closely follow NATO programmes to further advance this," Nacar said.
He noted that Havelsan last year exported tactical data link network planning software to NATO under its first contracts with the alliance and continues to participate in NATO's Coalition Warrior Interoperability eXploration, eXperimentation, eXamination, eXercise (CWIX), where its software is tested and certified for interoperability.
"Our products were tested and certified there this year as well," Nacar said, adding that the company develops technologies fully aligned with NATO standards in command and control, cybersecurity, military software and systems integration.
He also highlighted Havelsan's expanding international footprint, including coast guard surveillance systems for a Black Sea country and simulation technologies developed under the Hurjet project with Spain.
AI to shape future battlefield
Nacar said artificial intelligence will play a central role in next-generation military operations, with Havelsan developing closed-loop AI systems tailored to defence requirements.
The company has integrated its proprietary MAIN artificial intelligence model into new battle management products unveiled at recent defence exhibitions.
"Defence needs require an AI system that is not very open to the outside and where data is shared less," Nacar said.
He said AI-enabled command and control systems capable of processing battlefield data from sensors, radars and munitions to support military decision-making—and eventually autonomous operations—are becoming a key focus for both NATO and the global defence industry.
