Gulf States Turn to Turkish Defense Industry: New Deals and Radar Systems

Rising conflicts in the Middle East and the disabling of radar systems during Iranian retaliations have pushed Gulf states to seek alternatives in defense procurement. According to a report by Middle East Eye, delivery delays from US suppliers have accelerated this shift. Countries in the region, particularly Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, have increased contacts with Turkish defense companies and signed new agreements. Kuwait's Defense Minister Sheikh Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al Sabah signed an intergovernmental protocol covering the procurement of systems from Turkish firms such as Aselsan, Havelsan, Baykar, Otokar, and Yonca Shipyard. Kuwait is reported to have shown strong interest in Baykar's AKINCI UAV and the HİSAR air defense system. Having previously purchased Bayraktar TB2s, Kuwait aims to expand its defense capabilities with this new step. Saudi Arabia and Qatar are focusing on anti-drone systems. The two countries have signed agreements to purchase the Aselsan-produced Korkut 100/25 air defense system. This system offers a solution against small UAV threats using 25mm smart ammunition. Saudi Arabia is also showing interest in new laser-guided anti-drone systems introduced at Saha Expo. Iraq is in a similar procurement process; the country is reportedly close to completing the purchase of 20 air defense systems, which are likely to be KORKUT. Senior officials from the United Arab Emirates also visited the expo to examine Turkish defense products. The report emphasizes that rising security concerns in the Gulf have made Turkey a critical player in the regional defense equation. This is not investment advice.