Turkey is showcasing its latest aerospace and defence technologies at the SAHA 2026 International Defence and Aerospace Exhibition in Istanbul.

The event serves as a strategic platform to increase the global visibility of homegrown Turkish military tech while shaping the industry's future direction.

The exhibition is taking place from May 5-9, 2026 [1], at the Istanbul Expo Centre [2]. The event has drawn at least 1,700 exhibitors and companies [2] to the venue to display a wide array of defence products.

Organizers designed the expo to facilitate discussions on the current state of the sector and its future trajectory. This focus on domestic production aims to reduce reliance on foreign military imports and establish Turkey as a primary exporter of aerospace technology.

Beyond corporate displays, the event emphasizes the development of the next generation of engineers. A total of 263 interns are participating in the exhibition [2], providing them with direct access to industry leaders and emerging technologies.

The gathering brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, from government officials to private contractors. By consolidating these entities in one location, the expo aims to streamline the procurement process for the Turkish military, and forge new international partnerships.

“At least 1,700 exhibitors and companies have gathered at the Istanbul Expo Centre.”

The scale of SAHA 2026 reflects Turkey's broader geopolitical strategy to achieve military autonomy. By integrating thousands of domestic firms and investing in youth training through internship programs, Turkey is attempting to transition from a buyer of foreign defense systems to a global hub for aerospace innovation and export.