ALBAWABA - In a groundbreaking achievement for the Turkish defense industry, Baykar has secured a position in the prestigious list of the world's top 100 defense firms, thanks to the success of its Bayraktar TB2 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) exports.
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) revealed this remarkable feat in its recent report on global military expenditures.
Making its international debut, Baykar, renowned for its commitment to self-funded projects and cutting-edge research and development (R&D), clinched the 76th spot on SIPRI's list with a staggering 94% increase in revenue, totaling $1.42 billion for the year 2022.
CEO Haluk Bayraktar underscored the company's journey from humble beginnings in 2003 to becoming a global player in the unmanned systems arena. The Bayraktar TB2 UAV, a paradigm-shifting product, has garnered international acclaim, with export agreements signed with 33 countries, including the Bayraktar AKINCI TİHA, an Attack Unmanned Aerial Vehicle.
Bayraktar emphasized that their focus on R&D and commitment to technological excellence has been pivotal to their success. The company's dedication to developing a single, high-quality product, such as the Bayraktar TB2 UAV, has disrupted traditional norms in the defense industry, propelling Turkey into a prominent position in global exports.
The significance of Baykar's achievement extends beyond its individual success, reflecting the strength of Turkey's high-tech development ecosystem. While four Turkish defense companies made it onto SIPRI's list, Baykar's CEO highlighted the crucial role played by hundreds of local firms, acting as suppliers for critical subsystems. This growth underscores Turkey's rising prominence as a key player in the global defense industry.
As Baykar looks ahead, the company anticipates further expansion with the commencement of Bayraktar AKINCI TİHA exports in 2023. The success story of Baykar serves as a testament to the transformative power of technological innovation, positioning Turkey at the forefront of the global defense elite.
