Introduction

Defense industry cooperation became one of the priority areas during Belgium’s 2026 Economic Mission to Türkiye. The Belgian delegation led by Queen Mathilde made its first official visit to Baykar’s Özdemir Bayraktar National Technology Center, a move widely interpreted as a symbolic demonstration of Europe’s growing interest in Türkiye’s defense industry.

In the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, European countries have accelerated efforts to increase defense production capacity and diversify military partnerships. Within this framework, Türkiye is emerging as a strategic partner.

The Baykar Visit Reflects Europe’s New Security Search

Statements made by Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken following the Baykar visit clearly revealed Europe’s growing interest in Turkish defense technologies. Francken described Baykar as a unique actor within NATO, emphasizing that innovation has become the company’s core principle.

He particularly highlighted the transformative impact of AI-supported armed unmanned aerial vehicles on modern warfare doctrines and stated that Baykar is now moving toward the next phase: unmanned fighter aircraft.

The fact that the Kızılelma unmanned combat aircraft has already entered serial production and export stages is being closely monitored by European defense circles.

Following the Russia-Ukraine war, European countries have increasingly focused on:

-expanding defense spending,

-creating new technology partnerships,

and diversifying NATO production capabilities.

Türkiye has gained prominence in this process through cost-effective systems that have already proven themselves on the battlefield.

Bayraktar Systems Strengthen Their Position in the Global Defense Market

Baykar has become one of the most prominent defense companies in recent years, especially through the success of the Bayraktar TB2 armed drones. These systems were actively used in conflict zones, particularly in Ukraine, where they demonstrated notable battlefield effectiveness.

This development represents not only military success but also a major leap in Türkiye’s defense exports. Europe’s growing interest in Baykar reflects the rise of new actors alongside traditional defense manufacturers.

The Belgian delegation’s planned visits not only to Baykar but also to Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), Aselsan, and armored vehicle manufacturer BMC further demonstrate Europe’s search for broader defense cooperation with Türkiye.

Defense Cooperation Ahead of the NATO Summit

The timing of the Belgian delegation’s visit carries additional importance ahead of the NATO Summit scheduled to take place in Ankara in July.

Türkiye has recently intensified bilateral defense industry agreements with European countries. During the “Türkiye-Belgium Defense Industry Day” meeting organized by the Presidency of Defense Industries, Belgian manufacturers are expected to present projects and explore partnership opportunities with Turkish companies.

Ankara’s broader objectives include:

-strengthening NATO defense cooperation,

-developing joint production models,

and deepening defense industry integration with Europe.

Officials believe that growing contacts with countries such as Belgium and Germany could contribute positively to alliance solidarity ahead of the NATO Summit.

Conclusion

The Belgian delegation’s visit to Baykar demonstrates Türkiye’s rising role within Europe’s evolving security architecture. Particularly in the fields of unmanned aerial systems and AI-supported military technologies, Türkiye’s growing technological capacity is increasingly viewed as a strategic opportunity for European countries.

As defense transformation accelerates following the Russia-Ukraine war, Baykar and other Turkish defense companies are becoming increasingly important actors not only regionally but also within the global defense industry.