This Muslim Nation Seals Huge Defence Deals—Not Iran!

Erdogan Strengthens Defense Ties with Indonesia, Malaysia, and Pakistan in Landmark Asia Tour

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has concluded a significant three-nation tour, visiting Indonesia, Malaysia, and Pakistan, with a strong focus on defense cooperation. The visit resulted in multiple key military and defense agreements, further solidifying Turkey’s presence in Asia’s defense sector.

Accompanying Erdogan were Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, National Defense Minister Yaşar Guler, Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacır, Agriculture and Forestry Minister İbrahim Yumaklı, and Trade Minister Omer Bolat, underscoring the importance of the trip.

Major Defense Deals with Malaysia

During Erdogan’s visit to Malaysia, 11 agreements were signed, including a landmark defense deal between Turkey’s Desan Shipyard and Malaysia’s Ministry of Home Affairs for the procurement of multi-purpose mission ships.

 These 99-meter-long vessels will be capable of operating in deep waters for up to 30 days.
 Equipped with a helipad, two aerial drones, and four high-speed interceptor boats, they will enhance Malaysia’s maritime security.
 The ships are expected to be fully operational by early 2027.

A Malaysian Navy official confirmed that these new vessels will play a crucial role in monitoring the South China Sea, preventing illegal fishing, deterring foreign vessel intrusions, and combating smuggling and human trafficking.

Indonesia and Turkey Partner for Drone Manufacturing

Erdogan’s next stop was Indonesia, where 13 agreements were signed, including a major deal between Indonesian firm Republicorp and Turkish defense company Baykar to establish a drone manufacturing facility.

 The joint venture will focus on the production and maintenance of UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles).
 Baykar will manufacture 60 Bayraktar TB3 drone sets and 9 advanced Bayraktar Akıncı drones for Indonesia.
 The collaboration will also include technology transfer, training programs, and infrastructure development to enhance Indonesia’s defense ecosystem.

This strategic partnership positions Indonesia as a regional hub for drone production, strengthening its military capabilities in aerospace and surveillance technology.

Strengthening Military Cooperation with Pakistan

Erdogan’s final stop was Pakistan, where he signed several key defense agreements with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

 Military and civilian personnel exchange programs to boost social and cultural cooperation.
 electronic warfare collaboration between the Turkish and Pakistani Air Forces.
 Training and cooperation agreements in military healthcare.

A significant MoU was also signed between Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS) and Pakistan’s National Research & Development Institute (NRDI) to enhance collaboration in aerospace and maritime research.

Turkey’s Expanding Defense Network in Asia

Erdogan’s three-nation tour highlights Turkey’s growing influence in Asia’s defense industry, particularly among Islamic nations.

 Turkey had previously supplied drones to the Maldives, showcasing its expanding defense exports.
 The latest strategic agreements with Malaysia, Indonesia, and Pakistan suggest Turkey is actively building defense alliances in West Asia and beyond.

Experts predict that Turkey’s role in global defense partnerships will continue to grow, with more joint ventures, technology transfers, and security collaborations on the horizon.