AN ANALYTİCAL ASSESSMENT OF THE TURKİSH DEFENSE INDUSTRY AND ITS ECONOMİC IMPLİCATİONS

Abstract

The pursuit of strategic autonomy has been a key driver in shaping Türkiye's defense policy, with a focus on reducing dependence on others through the advancement of its domestic military capabilities. While benefiting from NATO membership and access to global technologies, Türkiye has emphasized the creation of a sovereign defense ecosystem. This article makes an overall evaluation of Türkiye's defense industry through an examination of its historical trajectory, strategic role, structural transformation, sectoral performance indicators, and economic role in a wider senseThe study aims to interpret the shifting pattern of the sector by analyzing export-import performance, labor trends, and its effects on technological and industrial development. A qualitative-descriptive approach was employed, founded on policy document analysis, scholarly literature, and statistics data analysis.The results emphasize Türkiye's improvements in integrating indigenous production, enhancing exportation capability, and aiding economic sustainability through its defense programs.