International defense event IDEF begins in Istanbul

By Gokhan Ergocun

ISTANBUL (AA) - The 16th International Defense Industry Fair 2023 kicked off in Istanbul on Tuesday with a high-profile attendance.

One of the largest global defense events, which will continue until Friday, is exhibiting a range of defense products including land vehicles, weapons, simulators, radars, sonars, naval platform solutions, aviation systems, missiles, logistic vehicles, supply equipment, and security systems.

This year, 200 delegations, including 96 high-profile delegations, and 650 domestic and 850 foreign companies, are expected to attend the event, according to the Turkish National Defense Ministry.

Haluk Gorgun, the head of Turkish Defense Industry Agency, said the event is showcasing cutting-edge defense platforms and systems, and will host several agreements and cooperation deals.

"Our country, making important breakthroughs in the defense industry as in every other field, increases its competitive power in the world defense industry market, and works to ensure security and stability in the region," he added.

Gorgun said as many as 120 agreements will be signed with delegations and participating companies by 31 Turkish procurement authorities during the event.