At a ceremony held at Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) in Ankara, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan celebrated the delivery of T627 Gökbey helicopters, underscoring Türkiye’s defense capabilities and resolve against terrorism.

During his address, Erdoğan highlighted recent advancements in Türkiye’s defense sector, a strengthened counter-terrorism strategy, and plans for future security systems.

Erdoğan emphasized Türkiye's unwavering stance against terrorism, stating, "We will never give way to complacency in eliminating the terrorist threat against our country." He expressed confidence in TAI and other defense personnel to honor the sacrifices made in counter-terrorism efforts, vowing continued actions against any detected threats both within and beyond Turkish borders.

The president further noted the intensified blows dealt to terrorist groups through recent cross-border operations, specifically Operation Claw-Lock in Iraq and actions in Syria, which have consolidated security along Türkiye's southern borders. “We do not let the terrorists beyond our borders breathe,” Erdoğan stated.

Erdoğan stressed Türkiye’s commitment to fostering a peaceful, united society resilient to divisive agendas. "85 million of us will live side by side in peace, unity, and brotherhood for many centuries to come," he affirmed, while highlighting the nation's commitment to a future free from violence and terrorism.

Reflecting on Türkiye’s transition to self-sufficiency in defense, Erdoğan celebrated the success of domestic production initiatives, which have surpassed 80% localization within the defense industry. "We have become a self-sufficient country in this field," he said, noting that the domestic defense sector now comprises over 3,500 companies and employs more than 90,000 workers, contributing significantly to the economy.

He credited the transformation to a 2004 Defense Industry Executive Committee decision to prioritize local production. With over a thousand projects in progress and a portfolio worth $100 billion, Türkiye has achieved global recognition in UAV and UCAV production, capturing a large portion of the international market since 2018.

In a forward-looking announcement, Erdoğan revealed Türkiye’s layered air defense project, dubbed the "Steel Dome," aimed at countering asymmetric threats and bolstering national security. "We will build the Steel Dome," Erdoğan declared, affirming his administration’s ambition to create a fully independent Türkiye in defense.

Erdoğan closed with a promise to persevere in building "the Century of Türkiye" with strengthened national capabilities, dedication, and determination. (ILKHA)