Belgian Defense Minister Highlights Baykar’s Innovation During Istanbul Visit

(MENAFN) Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken praised Turkish defense manufacturer Baykar during a visit to its Özdemir Bayraktar National Technology Center in Istanbul, describing the company as a standout player within NATO’s defense ecosystem due to its focus on continuous technological development.

Francken, who is visiting Türkiye as part of a Belgian Economic Mission alongside Queen Mathilde and business representatives, shared remarks on social media following the visit.

He described Istanbul as a city “boiling with entrepreneurial spirit and dynamism,” adding that “the future of defense is also being shaped here.”

Referring to his visit, he said, “Yesterday, I visited Baykar with the Queen and our entrepreneurs. This defense company holds a unique place within NATO because it has made continuous innovation a core principle.”

Francken noted that Baykar began as a small enterprise in the 1980s before evolving into a major defense company founded by two brothers from the ground up, crediting its growth to a strategy of constant advancement.

“How? By always staying one step ahead. Almost by reading the future,” he said.

He also described the company as a leader in artificial intelligence–driven unmanned aerial systems that continue to improve in range and altitude capabilities.

Francken further stated that Baykar is now progressing toward what he called the next phase in unmanned aviation, referring to the development of the Kızılelma unmanned combat aircraft, which he said is already in mass production and being exported.

In addition, he said he would promote investment opportunities for both Belgian and Turkish businesses during his meetings in Istanbul, noting that dozens of bilateral agreements are expected to be signed. He also voiced support for updating the Türkiye–European Union Customs Union framework.

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