Aselsan, Türkiye’s defense technology powerhouse, has solidified its position as a global leader in the sector, driven by a surge in defense budgets, strategic international partnerships, and a relentless focus on innovation. The company’s recent performance at IDEF 2025, where it showcased its advanced air defense systems—including the EJDERHA, GOKTAN, KORAL 200, TURAN, and GURZ—underscores its growing influence in the defence and aerospace market.
Since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war, European nations have significantly increased defense investments, a trend that has propelled global defense and aerospace stocks to new heights. The U.S. has also played a pivotal role in this surge, with President Trump’s administration securing historic arms deals, including a $142 billion agreement with Saudi Arabia—the largest in history. These developments, coupled with NATO’s commitment to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, have created a robust market for defense technology firms.
Aselsan has been a standout performer in this landscape, becoming the first company on Borsa Istanbul to surpass a market capitalization of ₺1 trillion. The company’s aselsaneXt program, launched in 2024, has been instrumental in driving its export-focused growth strategy. Over the past nine months, Aselsan has seen a remarkable 196.6% increase in stock value, placing it among the top global gainers alongside South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace (239%), Germany’s Rheinmetall (221.9%), and Sweden’s Saab (145.8%).
“Aselsan aims to rank among the world’s top 30 defense firms by 2030,” the company stated, reinforcing its ambition to become a key player in global defense innovation. Its portfolio includes cutting-edge systems such as AESA radar, electro-optical devices, electronic warfare systems, and AI-supported technologies—areas where only a select few companies globally possess production capabilities.
The shift in investor focus toward technology-driven defense firms has further bolstered Aselsan’s standing. Unlike traditional manufacturers, Aselsan represents a new generation of companies that seamlessly blend innovation with strategic industry transformation. This approach has not only strengthened its market position but also positioned it as a model for other emerging defense technology leaders.
As global defense budgets continue to rise and geopolitical tensions persist, Aselsan’s strategic vision and technological prowess will be critical in shaping the future of the defence and aerospace industry. The company’s ability to adapt to evolving security challenges while maintaining a strong export-driven growth strategy ensures its continued relevance in an increasingly competitive market.