Turkey and Japan Enhance Defense Cooperation Focused on Drones

Turkey and Japan have formalized a defense industry partnership aimed at joint drone production. The agreement was signed by Turkey’s Presidency of Defense Industries and Japan’s Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency during the Turkey-Japan Defense Industry Cooperation Day at SAHA 2026 in Istanbul. This initiative involves 30 Turkish companies, including Baykar, and 10 Japanese defense firms. The partnership is expected to expand into advanced defense technologies, particularly unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Japan is interested in Turkey's TB2 drones, which have gained international attention for their effectiveness in conflicts. The collaboration reflects Turkey's ambition to grow its defense exports and Japan's need to enhance its drone capabilities amid regional security concerns. Japan's 2026 defense budget includes funding for new UAVs to replace retiring helicopter fleets.

Key Points: • Turkey and Japan signed a defense cooperation agreement focused on drones. • The partnership includes 30 Turkish and 10 Japanese defense firms. • Japan aims to enhance its drone capabilities in response to regional security threats.