Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Türkiye’s Defence and Foreign Policy

doi: 10.32563/hsz.2025.3.2

Abstract

In recent years, the Turkish defence industry has experienced a major revolution in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology. Domestically produced Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are used in many areas, especially in reconnaissance, intelligence and military operations. This has made Türkiye gain international prestige.

This study examines the recent UAV revolution of the Turkish defence industry and its impact on Türkiye’s current and future defence strategy. First of all, it provides a detailed account of Türkiye’s determination to produce its unmanned aerial vehicles. Then, the first uses of UAVs and the role of this technology in the successful operations of the Turkish military are discussed. The impact of Turkish drones in different geographies such as Syria, Libya and the Karabakh War is analysed in a comprehensive and detailed manner.

In conclusion, the revolutionary advances of the Turkish defence industry in UAV technology are summarised, which enhance the country’s military capabilities and provide a significant competitive advantage in the international arena.

Keywords:

Unmanned Aerial Systems defense intelligence military operations foreign politics

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