Why do Gulf states favor the Turkish defense industry?
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Why Are Gulf Nations Turning to Turkey’s Defense Industry?
In the last five years, Turkey has transformed from a secondary to a primary supplier for Gulf Cooperation Council countries. The question is no longer “Will Gulf nations buy arms from Turkey?” but rather “What will they buy, when, and in what form of partnership?” Here are the structural reasons behind this shift.
Speed of Delivery
In a defense market where buyers measure time in months, not years, Turkey has an edge. The Bayraktar TB2 drone can be delivered within 12 to 18 months of a contract being signed. Roketsan’s missiles are delivered in a similar timeframe. Meanwhile, securing permission for the delivery of F-35 fighter jets or Patriot systems from the United States can take years, sometimes up to a decade.
Political Flexibility
American missiles and systems come with stringent end-user monitoring conditions and export restrictions, such as the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Turkey’s equivalent restrictions are far more lenient. This means any Gulf state can purchase Turkish drones and use them in operations that Washington might not approve of.
Technology Transfer and Local Production
Qatar produces BMC armored vehicles in Doha. Saudi Arabia is negotiating a massive technology transfer. Turkey offers a “buy and build” model—purchase the system and build the factory. The United States is not as generous in offering this model, while China offers it at a different price point.
Cultural and Religious Alignment
This is a tangible factor. Training can be conducted in Arabic, and communication between Turkish and Gulf state officers is faster and with less friction than other alternatives. This shortens training cycles and reduces the need for intermediaries.
Combat Experience
The Bayraktar TB2 drone has proven its effectiveness in Syria, Libya, Karabakh, and Ukraine. The Atmaca anti-ship missile is also in service. This is not a marketing pitch, but real combat experience that procurement officials in Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, and Doha are studying closely.
Conclusion
Gulf states are turning to Turkey because its offer is simple: capable enough systems at a reasonable price, with acceptable delivery times, and without complex political strings attached. Washington does not offer such a package, Moscow’s offerings come with the risk of sanctions, and Beijing’s are cheaper but lack political clout.
