Historic move in the defense industry

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan declared Turkey a "world giant" in the defense industry, emphasizing the nation's strategic importance in a chaotic global landscape. Speaking at the delivery ceremony of the Offshore Patrol Vessel 'Kam Roman' to Romania, Erdoğan stated, "Those who are not strong on the field cannot find a place at the table, and can even find themselves on the menu." He asserted Turkey's early recognition and accurate interpretation of the new global security era.

Erdoğan highlighted the substantial growth in Turkey's defense exports, noting that the country achieved a historic success by exporting $996 million worth of defense and aviation products in the previous month. He contrasted this with the $248 million in annual exports from 23 years prior, emphasizing that the current weekly export volume now surpasses that historical annual figure. The military shipbuilding industry is experiencing its most intense and productive period in the Republic's 103-year history, with over 140 naval platforms exported to various regions. Turkey is currently manufacturing over 50 warships, with more than 15 designated for export to friendly and allied nations.

The delivery of the 'Contraamiral Roman' corvette to Romania marks a historic first: Turkey has exported a warship to a NATO and European Union member country. The vessel, built by Istanbul Shipyard Command under the main contractorship of ASFAT, measures approximately 100 meters in length and has a displacement of 2,300 tons. It is designed for reconnaissance, surveillance, patrol, maritime security, and combat missions.

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Those who are not strong on the field cannot find a place at the table, and can even find themselves on the menu.

Erdoğan reiterated Turkey's commitment to fostering peace, justice, stability, and cooperation in the region, stating, "Turkey's aim is not to create tension in our region, but to strengthen peace, justice, stability, and order." He affirmed that Turkey does not seek conflict and respects the sovereignty and territory of other nations, adhering to the principle: "We neither consume rights nor let our rights be consumed."

In addition to the export, the ceremony also marked the commissioning of the TCG Koçhisar, which will bolster the Turkish Naval Forces. The successful testing, training, and operational readiness phases of the 'Contraamiral Roman' have once again proven the quality of Turkish naval platforms to the world.

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We neither consume rights nor let our rights be consumed.