NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has said alliance members can draw valuable lessons from Türkiye’s rapidly advancing defense sector, describing it as a transformative shift in industrial capability.
Speaking during a visit to Aselsan headquarters, Rutte pointed to the country’s swift progress in defense manufacturing and innovation, calling it an example for other NATO nations. He stressed that boosting industrial output is just as critical as increasing defense spending.
Rutte noted that strengthening production capacity in areas such as air defense systems, drones, ammunition, radar technology and space capabilities will be a central focus at NATO’s upcoming summit in Ankara.
Highlighting an increasingly complex global security landscape, he warned of growing threats ranging from cyberattacks to missile strikes, alongside ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Russia, China and Iran. He added that Türkiye faces direct exposure to several of these risks.
The NATO chief also revealed that the alliance had intercepted ballistic missiles directed toward Türkiye from Iran on multiple occasions, underscoring its commitment to collective defense.
Describing Türkiye’s progress as a “defense industrial revolution,” Rutte praised Aselsan’s role at the forefront of innovation and urged continued expansion in both production and technological development.
He emphasized that ensuring the security of NATO’s population requires not only military readiness but also a strong and resilient defense industry. Rutte also highlighted growing cooperation across the alliance, with Turkish defense firms increasing their presence in international markets.
Aselsan, established in 1975 and headquartered in Ankara, has grown into one of the world’s leading defense companies and recently became the first Turkish firm to surpass a $30 billion market valuation.
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