Istanbul: The International Defense Industry Fair, recognized as one of the premier defense events globally, commenced in Istanbul, Trkiye. The six-day event marks its 17th edition and is being hosted across multiple venues, including the Istanbul Fair Center, Ataturk Airport, Wow Hotel, and Atakoy Marina.
According to Anadolu Agency, the event is organized by KFA Fairs with the backing of Trkiye's Defense Industries Secretariat (SSB) and the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation, with Anadolu serving as the global communication partner. The fair is set to welcome ministers, chiefs of staff, commanders, and high-ranking officials from 33 countries. Additionally, 44 countries are participating with their own stalls. The exhibition showcases a wide array of defense technologies, including land vehicles like main battle tanks and armored combat vehicles, as well as air and naval vehicles.
The fair's land vehicles section also features electronic warfare systems, rockets, guided missiles, and tactical ballistic missiles. Air vehicles include platforms such as fixed-wing aircraft, air defense systems, electronic warfare technologies, satellites, unmanned aerial vehicles, and aircraft engines. Meanwhile, the naval vehicles section highlights combat and support ships, fixed-wing and rotary-wing platforms, and unmanned surface and underwater vehicles.
SSB President Haluk Gorgun shared insights with Anadolu, mentioning plans for innovations at IDEF 2025. He highlighted the strategic significance of hosting the fair in Istanbul, a global hub, and spoke about the potential for countries and end-users to discuss their needs and formalize agreements. Gorgun noted that the previous IDEF facilitated over 5,000 meetings, and he anticipates an increase in interactions this year.
In addition to extending the fair by two days, the event will be open to the public on the final two days, giving enthusiasts an opportunity to engage with the latest in defense technology. The fair will also feature panels, speeches, and a Network Summit on the third day, providing a platform for networking and discussions in a more relaxed environment.