SAMI emphasized that the agreement with Baykar Tech will play a pivotal role in enhancing the national defence industry and strengthening local manufacturing capabilities.
Baykar Tech has announced that Saudi Arabia has taken a significant step towards bolstering its domestic defence capabilities through a strategic agreement with the Turkish defence firm. The agreement, announced by state-owned Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) on the messaging platform X (formerly Twitter), focuses on localising the manufacturing of drones within the kingdom. SAMI emphasized that the agreement with Baykar Tech will play a pivotal role in enhancing the national defence industry and strengthening local manufacturing capabilities. The move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader goal of achieving greater self-sufficiency in its defence sector.
This agreement comes on the heels of a historic defence contract between Saudi Arabia and Baykar Tech in July 2023, marking the largest-ever defence deal in Turkey’s history. Under that contract, Saudi Arabia committed to purchasing Turkish drones, further solidifying the growing partnership between the two countries in the defence sector.
“The agreement will enhance SAMI’s role in supporting the national defence industry and strengthening our local capabilities,” said SAMI.
The collaboration with Baykar Tech is a significant development for Saudi Arabia, as it aims to reduce its reliance on foreign defence suppliers and boost its own domestic production capabilities. The move also reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing its national security and technological expertise.
Notably, Gulf investments and funding have played a vital role in supporting Turkey’s economy and currency reserves since 2021. Following a diplomatic effort to mend ties with key Gulf states like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, Turkey has seen an influx of financial support from the region. This strategic cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Turkey in the defence sector further cements the improved relations between the two nations.
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As Saudi Arabia takes steps to enhance its indigenous defence capabilities and reduce its reliance on foreign suppliers, the collaboration with Baykar Tech is expected to contribute significantly to the development of advanced drone technology and manufacturing capabilities within the kingdom. This strategic partnership will likely have far-reaching implications for the region’s defence industry landscape and geopolitical dynamics.
