A Portuguese delegation visited Turkey to explore cooperation opportunities in the defense sector. The main objective of the visit was to study technological achievements that could be beneficial to both countries and to lay the groundwork for future cooperation. This visit is considered an important step to support development in the defense industry and to exchange experiences.
Redaksiya reports that the Portuguese delegation became acquainted with a wide range of equipment in Turkey that could be useful in various fields. The delegation members stated that they had no doubt that the technology they witnessed in Turkey was at the forefront of the world's most advanced technologies. In particular, the fully autonomous "KIZILELMA" aerial vehicle with high combat capability attracted attention. It was emphasized that this vehicle can be used not only during wartime but also in activities such as search and rescue, surveillance, and fire control. It was noted that such technologies will provide significant opportunities for carrying and deploying equipment on a large scale in the future.
Within the scope of the visit, attention was drawn to the fact that Baykar is a completely private company. The average age of the company's employees being under 29 highlighted how such investments help attract a highly qualified, well-paid, and young workforce, and how they contribute to strategically planning the future in the defense sector. For this reason, it was noted that this exchange of experience is very important, regardless of whether equipment can be purchased if needed. The Portuguese side stated that they are investing in the defense industry and want to have an investment idea that adds value to the future. It was emphasized that Portugal is ambitious in the drone field and has several significant companies within its scale. It was noted that there is a long way to go with national capital and investments, but this is only possible through seeing and exchanging experiences.
In response to a question about the purpose of the visit, a member of the Portuguese delegation stated that it aims to both see and open doors. They emphasized that they came to understand whether these pieces of equipment are important for Portugal and to see if the work done in Portugal is beneficial for Turkey. This visit was also evaluated as a trip focused on defense industries incorporating advanced technologies. During the visit, Baykar Chairman of the Board and Technology Leader Selçuk Bayraktar and General Manager Haluk Bayraktar informed the delegation about their work. The Portuguese delegation stated that they need to see good examples to be able to best determine their future goals. It was also emphasized that the visit did not have a specific procurement objective. Within the scope of the visit, the delegation also visited the Özdemir Bayraktar National Technology Center.