At the conclusion of Teknofest Blue Homeland, high-ranking Turkish officials underscored the nation’s dedication to enhancing maritime security and bolstering both defense capabilities and technological autonomy. Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz emphasized that safeguarding Türkiye’s maritime interests, collectively referred to as the “Blue Homeland,” has gained critical importance against a backdrop of increasing geopolitical tensions, security challenges, and the race for dominance in critical technologies, energy resources, and trade routes.
The event, held at the Gölcük Naval Shipyard, was a display of the country’s naval strength, featuring 37 vessels and four aircraft. Among the showcased assets were the TCG Anadolu, TCG Istanbul frigate, TCG Derya, and the Murat Reis submarine, as well as domestically developed unmanned maritime systems. This exhibition served to highlight Türkiye’s commitment to expanding its maritime capabilities through the integration of manned and unmanned platforms using artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, advanced sensors, and secure communication technologies.
Addressing the audience, Yılmaz pointed out that Türkiye’s defense sector has achieved a localization rate surpassing 80%, a testament to the nation’s strides toward self-sufficiency and technological prowess. This achievement aligns with Türkiye’s broader ambition to cement its status as a leading defense exporter on the global stage, further enhancing its strategic influence and economic strength.
Besides showcasing naval assets, Teknofest Blue Homeland also placed a spotlight on innovation and future talent, featuring competitions centered on unmanned underwater systems, maritime vehicles, and underwater technologies. These contests aim to inspire and nurture the next generation of engineers and innovators, fostering a culture of creativity and problem-solving essential for sustaining Türkiye’s technological and defense advancements.