& Foul-Weather Friends! by İbrahim SÜNNETCİ The Republic of Turkey has constantly sought out good relations with the Arab world and has paid great attention to not intervening in Arab affairs. However, this reservist attitude toward the Arab world started to change in the 1980s during which time Turkey had started to consider the Arab world as a lucrative market for Turkish made products and foreign capital under the then Prime Minister of Turgut ÖZAL’s leadership. Turkey’s relations with the Arab world gained significant During the first decade GCC with the signing been elected President of momentum when of the 2000s, as an of a Memorandum of Egypt. While Saudi Arabia, the Justice and active partner of the Arab Understanding (MoU) and the UAE, asserted that states, Turkey developed establishing a Strategic the Muslim Brotherhood Development Party economic, political and Dialogue Mechanism was a recruiting vehicle (AKP) came to defense related relations between Turkey and the for Sunni terrorist groups power in Ankara in with the Gulf Cooperation GCC in Jeddah, Saudi in the region, Turkey and November 2002. Council (GCC/an alliance of Arabia. With this MoU Qatar claimed that it was a The AKP has viewed six Gulf monarchies; Saudi Turkey became the first moderate political Islamist the Arabs as natural Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, non-Gulf state able to movement that could allies. Believing that United Arab Emirates, attain the status of GCC’s foster regional stability stronger ties between , and that strategic partner. Trade through participation in Turkey and the Arab had signed a defense pact volume between Turkey the legitimate political world could solve to consider an attack on and the GCC have grown process, so they provided most of the problems one of them as an attack from US$$1.5 Billion in region-wide support to in the region, Recep on all). Turkey’s institutional 1999 to US$16 Billion in the Muslim Brotherhood. Tayyip ERDOĞAN, relations with the GCC 2014. Turkish Government Turkey also insisted Turkey’s President commenced with the has previously declared a that MORSI should be and the Chairman “Framework Agreement target of US$100 Billion returned to power. So as a of the ruling Justice for Economic Cooperation trade with GCC countries result of differences over and Development between Turkey and the by 2023. the Muslim Brotherhood Party, have made Cooperation Council for issue and the new military However, Turkey’s relations tremendous efforts the Arab States of the Gulf government of Egypt, with the GCC began to during last 18 years to (GCC)” signed on May 30, Turkey’s relations with 2005 in Manama, Bahrain. deteriorate rapidly soon the GCC was strained and improve and expand after the July 2013 military both economic and Thanks to the high level of tensions led the to the economic and political coup in Egypt against creation of Saudis-Emiratis political relations Mohamed MORSI, the between Turkey and relations on September and Turkish-Qataris blocks. 2, 2008 Turkey became leader of the Muslim the Arab world. a strategic partner of the Brotherhood who had Due to political dispute

34 over the Muslim which time Turkey stood Turkey inside Qatar, and between Turkey and Qatar Brotherhood and other firmly with the State of paying reparations for its witnessed substantial issues the differences Qatar. actions. development in the 21st between Saudis-Emiratis century. In line with Turkey’s and Turkish-Qataris The differences between However, the State of Qatar deepening relations with blocks widened and Qatar and other member refused to meet these Qatar, Turkey has become by accusing Qatar of states of the GCC erupted demands and agreed an important destination supporting “terrorism”, again following the May with Turkey to increase for Qatari tourists. The Saudi Arabia, the UAE, 20-22, 2017, visit of US the size of the Turkish volume of Qatari capital and Bahrain withdrew President Donald TRUMP military contingent in the investments in Turkey their ambassadors from to Saudi Arabia, during country and to expand the increasing steadily during in March 2014. In which he expressed Qatar-Turkey Combined last two decades. In the November 2014, the UAE, substantial support for Joint Force Command in 2000s, the total trade Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia Saudi leaders. And on June Doha with naval and aerial volume between the made the decision to 5, 2017 the Gulf Crisis broke components. On June 7, two countries was just return their ambassadors out when a handful of Arab 2017 the Turkish Parliament US$38 Million. By 2014, to Doha, Qatar after an states led by Saudi Arabia (TBMM) ratified two deals this figure had increased agreement was reached (the de facto leader of the on deploying troops in to US$739 Million and to resolve an 8 month- GCC) abruptly severed Qatar and training its by the end of 2018, trade long dispute between the diplomatic relations with gendarmerie forces. As volume between the two GCC states. In response to the State of Qatar, expelled part of the expansion plan countries increased by Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the Qatar’s diplomats, recalled construction of a new base 57%, compared to 2017, UAE and Egypt’s threats, their ambassadors, and near the Tariq Bin Ziyad and reached a level of Qatar chose Turkey as imposed a blockade on military barracks was US$1.4 Billion. According an ally and allowed the the country, despite Qatar launched and completed to Qatar Minister of country to open a military being a fellow member of in August 2019. Turkey also Commerce and Industry base in its territories. On the GCC. It is clear that the increased food exports to Ali Bin Ahmed Al-KUWARI, December 19, 2014, the two Gulf Crisis revealed the Qatar to replace those the level of trade exchange countries inked a military fragility of the GCC and previously provided by between the two countries, cooperation agreement created a negative impact Saudi Arabia. Qatar, as which doubled by 78.8% to that allows the deployment on existing diplomatic, a small peninsular Gulf reach about QR 8.7 Billion of the Turkish Armed Forces economic and military state, has struggled to in 2018, compared to QR (TAF) in the State of Qatar. relations between Turkey maintain food supplies 4.8 Billion in 2017, while The agreement was ratified and the GCC. because of the imposed Qatari exports to Turkey by the Turkish Parliament embargo on the country. recorded growth of about The Gulf Crisis also shed (TBMM) on March 19, 2015 According to reports 99% between 2017 and light on the emerging and the first group of soon after the imposition 2018, and Qatari imports defense relations between Turkish troops arrived in of the blockade, Turkey from Turkey grew by about Turkey and Qatar and the capital city of Doha on dispatched airlift (on June 64.9% during the same proved to Qatar how October 4, 2015. As a result 22, 2017 the then Economy period. Qatar ranks first valuable its relationship of these developments Minister Nihat ZEYBEKÇİ among the Gulf countries with Turkey was. Turkey and diplomatic tensions disclosed that 105 cargo in terms of the number of helped its ally to cope with Turkey’s economic ties planes from Turkey carried projects undertaken by the Saudi-led blockade with GCC countries have aid to Qatar) and naval Turkish contractors. and prevented a military suffered a setback. expeditions and supplied escalation of the crisis, as Doha with approximately Speaking to media in Impact of the both Riyadh and the UAE thousands of tons of food January 2020 Deputy Gulf Crisis and reportedly had plans to supplies. The sea route had Minister of Foreign invade Qatar. On June 22, been opened because air Affairs of Turkey, Yavuz Turkey-Qatar 2017, the Saudi-led group Relations transport was insufficient Selim KIRAN disclosed presented Qatar with to meet the needs of the that standing at US$6.4 13 demands, including Though the history of population of the State of Billion Qatar’s foreign severing relations with bilateral relations between Qatar. direct investment in the Muslim Brotherhood, the State of Qatar and Turkey between 2005 and scaling back relations with Turkey-Qatar the Republic of Turkey go 2019 represents the 1.2% Iran, closure of Turkey’s back 1972, it is a fact that Economic and of Turkey’s cumulative permanent military base their relations have gained Trade Relations foreign direct investment. in Qatar, termination of significant momentum Deputy Minister KIRAN also military cooperation with Economic relations after the Gulf Crisis, during stressed that as of 2019

35 there were 170 companies with Qatar capital operating in Turkey. “Qatar is the 7th country where Turkish Contracting Industry companies undertake the most projects abroad. The total value of projects undertaken by Turkish companies in Qatar has reached US$18.3 Billion (many of them related to the 2022 FIFA World Cup soccer tournament). With the project price of US$1.2 Billion received in 2019, 8.11% increase) in 2018. The Since then the Committee industry, technology, and Qatar became the 2nd volume of Turkey’s exports has convened five times standardization to boost country with the highest to Qatar was US$15 Million – in December 2015, bilateral relations. number of jobs after Russia, in 2002. December 2016, November with a share of 6.6%. Qatar 2017, November 2018, Under an agreement expects to see many more Military and November 2019 signed on December 19, Turkish companies setting Cooperation sometimes in Qatar and 2014 Turkey set up its up production facilities in sometimes in Turkey – to first permanent military Doha. Between Qatar & Turkey sign framework agreements base at Tariq Bin Ziyad military barracks. The Speaking at the Qatari- and memorandums of establishment of Turkey’s Turkish Economic Forum The State of Qatar and understanding in different first permanent military held in November 2019 in Turkey currently maintain spheres, including the base, which was named Ankara, Qatar Minister of strong military ties. Several military sphere, with the Qatar-Turkey Combined Commerce and Industry military cooperation the aim of deepening Joint Force Command in Al-KUWARI underlined agreements have been the collaboration and December 2017, in Doha that Turkish companies signed between the strengthening the ties at Tariq Bin Ziyad military operating in Qatar play two countries during between the countries. At barracks, was completed an important role in last decade, and Turkey the fourth meeting of the in April 2016. Construction supporting the national steadily increase its military High Strategic Committee, of Turkey’s second economy, where more equipment exports to the held in on permanent base near the than 499 Qatari-Turkish State of Qatar. Turkey’s November 26, 2018 and Tariq Bin Ziyad military joint ventures operate in the military involvement attended by the Turkish barracks was completed fields of trade, contracting in Doha dates back to president and Qatari emir, in August 2019. The Qatar- and information December 2014, when the two countries signed, Turkey Combined Joined technology, while the Head of the State of inter alia, memorandums Force Command’s new number of companies Qatar Tamim Bin Hamad of understanding on Headquarters was officially wholly owned by the Turkish Al-THANI paid an official cooperation in the cyber opened with a ceremony side is 37, which are leading visit to Turkey. During field and the exchange held on December 14, 2019 companies working in the the visit on December 19, of military delegations, with the participation of fields of construction, and 2014 the two countries alongside agreements Turkish Minister of National industry. signed a comprehensive on culture, economy, and military cooperation trade. The Committee's fifth Defense (MoND) Hulusi The volume of exports agreement that allows meeting was held in Doha AKAR, Chief of Turkish from Turkey to the State for the deployment of on November 25, 2019 General Staff (TGS) General of Qatar has also been the Turkish Armed Forces under the co-chairmanship Yaşar GÜLER and Qatar increasing steadily since (TAF) in the State of Qatar of the Amir Sheikh Tamim Deputy Prime Minister 2002. According to Turkish and agreed to set up a Bin Hamad Al-THANI and and Minister of State for Exporters’ Assembly (TIM) bilateral cooperation and Turkish President Recep Defense Affairs Dr. Khalid figures, in 2019 Turkish consultation group called Tayyip ERDOĞAN and Bin Mohamed Al-ATTIYAH. exports to the State of the Turkey-Qatar High witnessed the signature The new base was named Qatar rose to US$1.101 Strategic Committee, of 7 agreements in various after Khalid Bin Walid. The Billion from US$1.018,265 headed by the Qatari emir fields including economy, inauguration of the second Billion (representing an and Turkish President. urbanization, trade, Turkish permanent military base in Qatar further

36

fortified the bilateral military month the Turkish Air the Chiefs-of-Staff of Forces Lt. Gen. (Pilot) Al- and defense cooperation Force (TurAF) participated the two countries since GHANIM met separately between the two nations. in the “FALCON-21 Exercise” beginning of the Gulf with Turkish MoND AKAR The new military base in with the Qatari Air Force. Crisis. For instance, on and Chief of TGS General Doha also reflects Turkey’s In June 2019, the Qatari November 4, 2017, Qatar GÜLER. During the increasing involvement in Air Force participated Defense Minister Khalid meetings, they discussed the security of the State of in the 15-day Anatolian Al-ATTIYAH met with his aspects of joint military Qatar and the Gulf region in Eagle Exercise in Turkey. Turkish counterpart at the co-operation between the general. However, Turkey’s On March 8, 2020 the time, Nurettin CANİKLİ, two sides. On November increasing military presence Turkish Ministry of National to discuss strengthening 29, 2019 the Chief of Staff in the region has created Defense announced that of military and defense of considerable discomfort the Qatar-Turkey Joint cooperation between the Lt. Gen. Al-GHANIM met among Qatar’s neighbors. Military Exercise “Invincible countries as well as the with the Commander of Sentry 2020 (Al-Hares Al- situation in the Gulf. On Turkish Special Forces, Since the eruption of Mane 2020)” hosted by March 25, 2019 the Chief of Major General Ömer Gulf Crisis in June 2017, Qatar has been kicked off Staff of Qatar Armed Forces Ertuğrul ERBAKAN, cooperation between the with the participation of Lieutenant General (Pilot) and his accompanying Turkish and Qatari militaries Turkish troops. According Ghanem Bin Shaheen delegation in Doha, Qatar. has notably intensified to a MoND announcement Al-GHANIM met with the The meeting discussed through a number of high- Turkey participates in Chief of TGS General Yaşar military topics of mutual level visits, joint training the Exercise with two GÜLER in Ankara, Turkey. interest. On December and war games. On June Commando Teams During the meeting a 13, 2019 accompanied 19, 2017 Turkey-Qatar from the Qatar-Turkey number of issues of mutual by Chief of TGS General joint military exercise was Combined Joint Force interest were discussed, GÜLER, Turkish MoND carried out at the Tariq Bin Command, one Special including means of AKAR visited Qatar. During Ziyad military barracks. On Forces Team from Turkish enhancing and developing the visit he met with the July 31, 2017, Turkish Gabya Special Forces Command bilateral relations and Libyan Government head Class frigate TCG Gökova, and one SAT (Underwater cooperation in defense and to discuss the recent carrying 214 sailors, arrived Offence) Team personnel military fields. General Al- maritime deal between in Hamad Port for two from Turkish Naval Forces GHANIM also met Turkish Turkey and Libya. He also days of naval exercises Command. Turkish troops MoND Hulusi AKAR in the attended the inauguration with the Qatari . also participate in the presence of General GÜLER ceremony of the Qatar- Conducted during August “Impregnable Guard and Qatari Ambassador Turkey Combined Joined 1-8, 2017 as part of military 2020” military drill, which to Turkey, Salem Bin Force Command’s new cooperation agreements is organized by the Qatari Mubarak Al-SHAFI. Headquarters in Doha. between Turkey and Qatar Joint Special Forces in During his stay in Ankara, On December 23, 2019 a the joint naval exercise, partnership with the Al-GHANIM also paid a Qatari Navy delegation codenamed “Iron Shield” Ministry of Interior, the visit to Commander of the paid a visit to Turkish included combat maritime Internal Security Force Turkish Special Forces. In Naval Forces Command’s maneuvers. In March 2018, (Lekhwiya), and the Amiri May 2019, Qatar Defense Yıldızlar Surface Training Turkish forces participated Guard. The “Impregnable Minister Al-ATTIYAH met Center Command to get in the Qatari Army's “Lion's Guard 2020” exercise in Qatar with his Turkish firsthand information Den Exercise”; in April 2018 commenced on March 8th counterpart Hulusi AKAR, on the Fire and Damage forces from both countries and run through March 27, and the two met again in Control Training Simulator participated the “Sahin 20” 2020 along with Jordan, August 2019, this time in and the Bridge Combat joint military exercise in the Morocco, Pakistan, the Turkey. In September 2019 Information Center Gulf; in December 2018 they Sultanate of Oman and the Qatari Defense Minister Simulator Systems. On held the “Al-Khandaq” joint US. The drill aims to prepare Al-ATTIYAH and the Chief February 4, 2020 the Chief exercise in Turkey, and in and train the participants of Staff of Qatar Armed of Staff of Qatar Armed February 2019 the Qatari to respond to any cross- Forces Lt. Gen. (Pilot) Al- Forces Lt. Gen. Al-GHANIM forces participated in the border security threat. GHANIM met with the met with Commander of Winter-2019 Exercise, an Chief of TGS General the Turkish Naval Forces annual exercise held in the In order to strengthen the Yaşar GÜLER to discuss (TNFC) Admiral Adnan city of Kars in northeastern existing cooperation and the military relationship ÖZBAL in Doha, Qatar. Turkey. In late April 2019 collaboration between the between Turkey and During the meeting, they Qatar's Border Guard held two-Armed Forces, frequent Qatar. On November 6, reviewed the military a joint exercise with the meetings took place over 2019 at the Turkish Ministry relations between the two Turkish forces in Qatar. the years between the of Defense the Chief of countries and means of Furthermore, in the same Defense Ministers and Staff of Qatar Armed enhancing and developing

38 Industry also rose to US$9 Billion in 2019. The exports of Turkish Defense and Aerospace Industry are expected to exceed US$3 Billion by the end of 2020.

According to data collected by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), during 2015-2019 with a share of 0.8% Turkey TGS ©

© ranked 14th on the list of Chief of TGS General GÜLER and the Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces Lieutenant the 25 largest major arms General (Pilot) Al-GHANIM met at TGS Headguarters in Ankara on Februrary 19, 2020 exporters of the world. Turkey was the 25th largest them. A number of senior Turkish Defense standard compliant and exporter in 2011. Turkey officers of the Armed & Aerospace cost-effective products. notably increased its Forces also attended the arms exports (specifically Industry Export Emerging as a new arms meeting. On February 13, armored vehicles and exporter that can provide 2020 Commander of the Figures naval vessels/boats) more efficient, low cost, Qatari Emiri Navy Major- to the Middle East and Starting in 2010 in combat proven, and less General (Navy) Abdullah Gulf countries, which are an effort to increase problematic products for Bin Hassan Al-SULAITI among the major markets defense cooperation with arms buyers, the Turkish received Commander of for Turkish Defense & Islamic countries, Turkey Defense & Aerospace the TNFC Admiral Adnan Aerospace Sector sales, turned its attention to Industry has managed ÖZBAL. during 2013 - 2019 and this the Middle East and to put 5 firms (Aselsan trend is expected to last On February 19, 2020 the North Africa (MENA) to [52nd], TUSAŞ [69th], STM also in 2020. According second Qatari-Turkish export fast intervention [85th], BMC [85th] and to TIM’s figures during High-Level Military boats, rockets/missiles, Roketsan [89th]) on the list January 1st – December Dialogue Meeting ammunition and of the world’s 100 largest 31st of 2019, the Turkish concluded in Ankara. armored vehicles. During defense companies in Defense & Aerospace The delegation of the recent years, leading 2019. According to export Industry has exported State of Qatar to the Turkish companies such figures revealed by the around US$710,145 Million meeting was chaired by as Anadolu Shipyard, Defense and Aerospace (which was at around the Chief of Staff of Qatar Aselsan, ARES Shipyard, Exporters’ Association US$311,187 Million in 2018 Armed Forces Lt. Gen. Al- Baykar Makina, BMC, (SSI) and the Turkish and US$131,52 Million in GHANIM, while the Turkish FNSS, Havelsan, Meteksan Exporters’ Assembly (TIM), 2017) worth of military side was chaired by Chief Defense, Nurol Makina the Turkish Defense and equipment to the Middle of TGS General GÜLER Sanayi (NMS), Otokar, Aerospace Sector has East and Gulf countries. according to reports the Roketsan, TUSAS, TEI, increased exports by 34.6% According to TIM’s data as meeting discussed a Vestel Savunma and during 2019 compared of December 31st, 2019 the number of issues related Yonca-Onuk JV have been to 2018. According to list of the top 15 countries to the military cooperation quite active particularly figures Turkey has realized that imported defense between the two countries in the Middle East and US$2,741 Billion worth of and aerospace products and ways of promoting and Gulf countries. Acting as defense and aerospace from Turkey is composed enhancing them. On the partners not suppliers exports to 164 countries of; the US (US$816,623 sidelines of the meeting, Lt. towards the Middle East around the globe in 2019. Million), Oman (US$ Gen. Al-GHANIM also met and Gulf countries, Turkish According to data released 297,199 Million), Germany with Turkish MoND AKAR. defense sector companies by TIM, the total weight (US$256,868 Million), During the meeting, the have dramatically of products exported by Qatar (US$186,168 two sides are said to have increased their exports and the Turkish Defense & Million), UAE (US$132,229 reviewed a number of have started to sign high- Aerospace Industry during Million), Ukraine issues related to military value export contracts, January 1st – December (US$119,237 Million), cooperation between the thanks to the proactive 31st of 2019 was around Azerbaijan (US$88,676 two brotherly countries foreign policy, aggressive 44,315 tons. The annual Million), the and means of developing marketing efforts and turnover of the Turkish (US$75,125 Million), the them. state-of-the-art, NATO- Defense & Aerospace

39 UK (US$60,604 Million), Turkish Defense x Bayraktar GÖZCÜ Mini recipient of the Turkish Bahrain (US$40,813 & Aerospace UAV Systems (each has Defense and Aerospace Million), India (US$40,630 4 air vehicles) valued industry products in Million), Pakistan Industry Exports at US$2,5 Million. The 2014, Qatar ranked 4th (US$40,175 Million), Poland to Qatar acceptance tests of both in 2018 and in (US$33,675 Million), GÖZCÜ Mini UAVs were 2019. According to data Apart from close (US$31,884 Million) and completed in February collected by TIM, Qatar political and personal (US$24,720 Million). 2012 in Qatar. These imported US$52,783 ties between Qatari and Mini UAVs, which are Million worth of military Turkish leadership, the According to TIM figures, Turkey’s first exported equipment from Turkey in defense sector has been the total arms exports Unmanned Air Vehicles, 2014, US$10,375 Million in one of the key areas to carried out by the Turkish were manufactured in 2015, US$52,277 Million in bolster cooperation and Defense & Aerospace accordance with Qatar’s 2016, US$24,484 Million partnership between Industry soared by 5% desert climate. Having in 2017 (ranked 12th these two brotherly during the first two months an operational range of in the list), US$83,455 countries. Despite a of 2020 and reached 15-25 km, the GÖZCÜ Million (this represents strong presence in Qatar US$348,697 Million. With Mini UAV is capable of a 240.85% increase by the US and France, a total of US$62,187 Million reaching a maximum of compared to 2017) in 2018 Turkey also plays an active in purchases the Middle 12,000 feet. Within the and US$186,168 Million role in Qatar’s private and East countries took a 17.8% scope of the MoU valued (represents a 123.08% defense sectors. Qatar is share in Turkey’s arms at US$120 Million, Qatar increase compared to interested in diversifying exports during January 1 also placed an order for 3 x 2018) in 2019. According its defense and security – February 29, 2020. MRTP 34 and 3 x MRTP 16 to SSI data as of 2019, procurement and has Fast Intervention Boats to 15 Turkish Defense Exporting its defense appreciated Turkey’s Yonca-Onuk JV Shipyard and Aerospace Sector products to 164 countries approach for joint (with a disclosed value companies have been around the world Turkey production, research of Euro52 Million) and exporting its products is targeting to become and development, and for an AW139 Helicopter to Qatar. According to a top six country in easy technology transfer. Simulator Training Center reports since the Gulf the world in terms of Qatar has started to sign to Havelsan with a value Crises, that erupted in defense and aerospace large-scale contracts with of around US$50 Million. June 2017, Qatar has spent exports. On December Turkish suppliers for the Under the MoU Qatar also more than US$25 Billion 4, 2019 the Presidency procurement of state-of- procured an undisclosed on military procurements of Defense Industries the-art, NATO-standard number of vehicle-based and according to TIM’s (SSB), the procurement compliant and cost- RF Jammer systems data the total value of authority under the effective defense and from Turkish firm Atel Turkish defense exports Turkish Presidency, issued aerospace equipment for Telecommunication in to Qatar realized during the “Strategic Plan 2019- the Qatar Armed Forces. 2012. As part of the MoU, a 2017-2019 merely 2023,” document, which free SSB Office, acting as amounted to US$295 states that the Turkish The first formal agreement liaison offices, arranging Million. Turkey aspires Defense and Aerospace between the Turkish contracts between local to have a bigger share Sector’s annual turnover MoND and the Qatar authorities and Turkish in Qatar’s defense and will rise to US$26,9 Billion Ministry of Defense for the companies was allocated security procurements in in 2023, from US$8,761 procurement of defense within the Qatari Emiri the coming years. Billion in 2018. According and aerospace equipment from Turkey was signed Navy Command’s to the “Strategic Plan Speaking at Aselsan Union during the IDEF ‘11 Fair. premises in Doha. 2019-2023,” document of Forces Summit held on The Memorandum of Turkey plans to boost its Turkey’s arms sales to February 5, 2019 at ATO Understanding (MoU) defense and aerospace Qatar increased steadily Congresium Center in formed in May 2011 (both military and during 2014 – 2019. Ankara, Turkey, Turkish covered the direct commercial) exports to According to export MoND Hulusi AKAR, procurement of US$120 US$10.2 Billion by 2023, figures revealed by TIM disclosed that Turkey Million worth of military from US$2,188 Billion in and SSI, Qatar is also has recently signed a equipment in the span 2018 and by 2023, the local progressing on the list contract with Qatar for of a year from Turkish content rate in defense of the top 15 countries the sale of FIRTINA Self companies. Under this and aerospace projects that import defense and Propelled Howitzers agreement the Kale/ will reach to 75% up from aerospace products from (SPHs). MoND AKAR did Baykar partnership was 65% in 2018, according to Turkey. While it was the not share any figure about awarded a contract in the plan. 8th largest importer/ the number of FIRTINA 2011 for the supply of 10

40

Factories (AFGM) to the Activities of private company BMC Turkish Defense drew strong criticism in Turkish public opinion and Aerospace and in the end it was Industry decided to transfer the Companies in 1st Main Maintenance Qatar Factory Directorate to ASFAT Inc. According to In order to strengthen Turkish media the transfer the existing cooperation procedure took place and collaboration in the during the second half defense industry between of 2019. It is stated that Turkey and the Middle ASFAT, which undertook East and Gulf countries the transfer, either directly MUSIAD (Independent rented the factory to Industrialists’ BMC or let BMC to run it Businessmen’s within certain conditions, Organization) and periods, and restrictions. the SSB decided to Since its purchase by organize country specific Turkish and Qatari (Barzan exhibitions in selected Holdings) partners for countries. In this context Defence Turkey Defence ©

© US$360 Million following the Turkish Defense The New Generation FIRTINA-II SPH was displayed at a tender held in an early & Aerospace Sector’s MoND's Booth at IDEF'19 2014, BMC has been first event aimed at one working as part of the specific country, High- SPHs to be delivered to modernization factory strategic partnership Tech Port by MUSIAD Qatar Armed Forces. It is was transferred to between Turkey and Qatar, a high level, believed that the contract BMC, a joint Turkish- Qatar. advanced and strategic covers New Generation Qatari venture that technology exhibition, FIRTINA (also dubbed manufactures armored In October 2018 it was was organized during FIRTINA-II) SPHs, which vehicles. The Qatari reported that after October 6-8th, 2015 in are under production at Government owns receiving assurance Doha under the auspices 1st Main Maintenance 49.9% of BMC. Under the that there would be of Turkish President Recep Factory Directorate deal, which represents no export restrictions, Tayyip ERDOĞAN and the located in the Sakarya another landmark in state-owned Machines Head of State of Qatar province of northwest Turkish-Qatari defense and Chemical Industries Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Turkey. On December cooperation, BMC will Board (MKEK) signed a Al-THANI. 67 Turkish 14, 2018 Aselsan secured make an initial investment contract to procure 20 and Qatari companies a contract valued at of US$40 to US$50 Million powerpacks (including showcased their latest US$194,6 Million to deliver to modernize the MBT 5TDFMA-1 engines) innovations in the defense Fire Control Systems for assembly and production from UkrOboronProm industry at the High-Tech the 140 FIRTINA-II SPHs unit. BMC plans to convert (Ukrainian Government’s Port by MUSIAD Qatar. ordered for the Turkish the military factory into a Defense Industry Land Forces Command. mass production unit for Enterprise) for the In order to create the ALTAY MBT, Turkey’s FIRTINA-II SPHs. These awareness in the With a Presidential first indigenous, new- 20 powerpacks were Middle East and Gulf Decree (Decree No: 481) generation MBT. The supposed to be installed countries of the Turkish signed by President plant will be under lease in the Qatari Emiri Land Defense and Aerospace ERDOĞAN on December to BMC for a period of 25 Force’s FIRTINA-II SPHs. Industry capabilities, the 10, 2018 and issued in years, according to the However, according to Presidency for Defense the Official Gazette on deal. However, the Turkish recent reports Turkey Industries (SSB) has been December 21, 2018 as Government’s decision to find a new European supporting national part of the ALTAY MBT privatize and lease of the engine provider for participation in defense Serial Production Project 1st Main Maintenance FIRTINA-II SPHs and series exhibitions in this region. the 1st Main Maintenance Factory Directorate production would start In this context, Turkey Factory Directorate, operated under the soon during the first half participates in important Turkey’s top Main Battle MoND-controlled General of 2020. defense and aerospace Tank maintenance and Directorate of Military exhibitions organized

42 in the Middle East and Gulf region such as IDEX/ NAVDEX (UAE), DIMDEX Defence Turkey Defence

(Qatar), SOFEX (Jordan) © and Bahrain International © Air Show (BIAS) and key players from the Turkish defense sector are Defence Turkey Defence brought together in a © © national pavilion.

Offering great export opportunities for the Turkish Defense and Aerospace Industry products, Turkey has been participating in the DIMDEX Exhibition, which has been held every two years since 2008, at a “National Level” with the support Defence Turkey Defence © and coordination of the © SSB since 2010. Turkey has DIMDEX 2018 been steadily expanding Marine Operations” training area, a cargo general public in Qatar its participation and Training in the Zekreet ship prepared for anti- remains low, our primary stand area at the Doha Zone. The contract was terror and fire training, concern remains the International Maritime signed by the Commander a pentathlon training health and welfare of all Defense Exhibition and of the Joint Special Forces, area, a port for zodiac residents and visitors to Conference (DIMDEX) Major General Hamad Bin boats, a 200-person Qatar and for this reason reaching 33 companies Abdullah Al-Fetais AL- sleeping quarters for the event will no longer occupying 2,413 square MARRI, MDS Chairman soldiers, a 50-person be held,” as stated in the meters of the fairground İlyas AYVACI and Board sleeping quarters for press release issued by the in 2018. Turkey attended Member İzzet ÖZGÜMÜŞ. officers, a dining hall, and organizing committee. DIMDEX 2016 with 24 With new training center weapons and ammunition firms and 1,295 square the training needs of warehouses. Meanwhile Anadolu meters of the fairground 200 military personnel during DIMDEX 2018, Piri Shipyard under the coordination would be met seamlessly Reis University, a maritime of the SSB. At DIMDEX During DIMDEX 2018 the and completely. It was institution, also signed an 2018, which was held Qatari Emiri Navy placed to be established on agreement to establish an during 12-14 March 2018, an order for two Cadet approximately 130 acres academy for the Qatari Turkey’s leading defense & Training Ships (CTS) to of land. The aim of the Emiri Navy. aerospace companies won Turkish private shipbuilder new Naval Special Forces contracts worth US$800 Anadolu Shipyard. Training Center is to train The 7th edition of DIMDEX Million, of which around According to Anadolu elite units such as SAS Exhibition was scheduled US$500 Million went to Shipyard, the 90-meter (Underwater Defense) and to be held during March Turkish private shipyards. vessels will displace 1,950 SAT (Underwater Offence). 16-18, 2020 in Doha, Meanwhile in March 2018 tons and will feature a The new Naval Special however on March 3, the it was revealed that Qatar helipad for a medium- Forces Training Center will organizing committee signed an agreement with size helicopter. The house various buildings announced that after Turkey to build a training vessels, which will have and equipment such as an consulting with public center for Qatar’s marine the capacity to provide administration building, a health officials and the special forces. Under the training for up to 72 naval 50-meter indoor shooting Government of the State contract awarded within cadets and are scheduled range and simulation of Qatar regarding the the scope of DIMDEX to be delivered in 36 center, a multipurpose status of the event, it 2018, Turkish firm MDS months, are also set to training center and was decided upon to Defense Technologies and be capable of performing a parachute training cancel the event due to Construction Inc. would offshore patrol duties. area, a training area for spreading corona virus. establish “BUROQ Special urbanized terrain, a bomb “Though the risk to the

43 Aselsan

Established in 1975 as a Shutterstock © communication electronics © company, Aselsan has grown into the largest defense electronics company in Turkey, one of the 100 largest defense companies (52nd in 2019) in the world. Aselsan already completed the delivery of three 12.7mm STAMP and three 30mm STOP/MUHAFIZ Remote Controlled Stabilized Naval Weapon Systems to the Qatari Emiri Navy and they were integrated on Aselsan's IGLA SAM Launcher System Mounted NMS YÖRÜK 4x4 was inw Yonca-Onuk JV’s MRTP16 Parade in Qatar, Doha and MRTP34 Class Fast Intervention Boats. Aselsan fast boats such as FIACs an undisclosed number Armored Vehicles (WAVs). also delivered a further six (Fast Inshore Attack Craft). of STAMP-2 and SARP Deliveries will take place in 12.7mm STAMP Systems RCWSs to Qatar and some 2020. Aselsan’s 12.7mm STAMP to Qatar and they were of the SARP RCWSs were and 30mm STOP/ Meanwhile under a integrated on six MRTP20 already integrated on MUHAFIZ Systems are also contract awarded by the boats ordered during Renault VAB 4x4 Wheeled being integrated on a total Qatar MoD on October 11, DIMDEX 2016. During the Armored Vehicles in Qatar of 26 HERCULES Fast Patrol 2017 Aselsan completed the DIMDEX 2018 Exhibition, Armed Forces service. Boats (11 x 24m ARES 80, 10 delivery of the Integrated Yonca-Onuk JV secured a The Qatar Armed Forces x 34,5m ARES 110 and 5 x Mobile Border Security contract from the Qatari also utilize the DargonEye 48,5m ARES 150) ordered System to the Qatar Armed Emiri Navy to deliver Integrated Electro-Optic in March 2014 and March Forces on March 12, 2018. four MRTP24/U Special (EO) Sensor System of 2018 by the Qatari Coasts The System includes a Operation Craft (SOCs) and Aselsan. It incorporates and Borders Security tactical vehicle based on four MRTP24/U Fast Missile basically: Thermal Imaging Department from ARES Mercedes Benz fitted with Craft (FACs). Construction Sensor, Laser Range Finder, Shipyard. An agreement the ACAR Land Surveillance of the MRTP24/U SOCs, Color Day Camera, GPS regarding the procurement Radar, ARYA E/O Sensor which would be the Qatari and DMC. According to of 12.7mm STAMP and Systems, SECANS Security version of the Turkish the Aselsan 2019 Activity 30mm STOP/MUHAFIZ Management Software Navy’s new SAT Boat Report, the company Remote Controlled and İŞBİR’s Tactical design, started in 2019. The completed delivery of Weapon Systems for the Silent Cabinet Generator MRTP24/U SOCs will be around 200 DragonEye EO needs of the Qatar Coast system. Also at DIMDEX armed with one of Aselsan’s Sensor Systems to Qatar Guard Command was 2018, Aselsan signed 12.7mm STAMP Remote and Turkish Armed Forces signed between Aselsan a technology transfer Controlled Stabilized Naval in 2019. and ARES Shipyard on deal with Qatari military Weapon System. Whereas December 28, 2016. Under On June 8, 2018 Aselsan technology firm Barzan the MRTP24/U FACs will the €20 Million contract secured a contract valued Holdings (which owns be fitted with a pair of awarded in January 2018 for around US$150 Million from 49% of BMC), covering STAMP Remote Controlled the first batch of 17 boats Nurol Makina to deliver an the establishment of Stabilized Naval Weapon covered the deliveries of undisclosed number of a joint venture ‘BARQ’ Systems as well as Aselsan’s 29 x 12.7mm STAMP and 12 SARP RCWSs (including (Arabic for “lightning”) remotely controlled BORA x 30mm STOP/MUHAFIZ SARP-Dual and SARP- in Qatar for the local Low Altitude/Short Range Remote Controlled ZAFER), SERDAR Anti- production of Aselsan’s Naval Air Defense System Weapon Systems. Having Tank Missile Launching stabilized remote weapon to be armed with MBDA’s established an office Systems and IGLA SAM systems and electro- Mistral missile. At the end (Aselsan-Qatar Project Launcher Systems to equip optical reconnaissance and of 2018, MBDA successfully Office) in Doha, Qatar Qatar Emiri Special Forces’ surveillance systems for the demonstrated the use of Aselsan also exported NMS/YORUK 4x4 Wheeled Qatar Armed Forces. the Mistral missile against

44 ARES Shipyard

Following tough competition with 18 international shipyards ARES Shipyard secured a US$55 Million contract on March 26, 2014, to deliver a total of 17 HERCULES Fast Patrol Boats from advanced composites in three configurations (five 24m ARES 80, 10 34.5m ARES 110 and two 48.5m ARES 150) to the Qatari Coasts and Borders Security Department. ©©Baykar Makina Deliveries started in October 2016 and ARES increased to 26 and the three BAYRAKTAR TB2-S BMC Shipyard managed to total value of company’s Armed UAV Systems complete the delivery of business volume in Qatar with six aircraft, FLIR BMC, a Turkish-Qatari joint the boats in late 2018 (20 has reached US$500 payloads, three Ground venture that manufactures months before the date Million. ARES Shipyard also Control Stations and a armored vehicles, previously specified in the contract). conducted negotiations UAV Training Simulator delivered 40 KIRPI MRAPS In December 2017, the with the Qatari Emiri Navy to the Qatari Emiri Air equipped with a Dodaam handover ceremony for for the sale of two 27m long Force Reconnaissance RCWS to Qatar. During the ARES 150 HERCULES (+2 options) boats with an and Surveillance Centre Doha International Maritime (QC901) Offshore Patrol aluminum body. Within Command, within a one- Defense Exhibition and Vessel, which is 48.5m the scope of the contract, year schedule. Having Conference (DIMDEX 2018), meters in length and the boat personnel would entered Qatar Emiri Air which was held at the Qatar the ARES 110 HERCULES be trained in Qatar, and Force service during National Convention Center (QC812) Fast the Qatari Emiri Navy the first half of 2019, the in Qatar's capital Doha on (FPB), which is 34.5 meters will receive maintenance BAYRAKTAR TB2-S Armed March 12-14, 2018, BMC in length, was held with support for 6 years. ARES UAVs are armed with secured a new contract the participation of Shipyard also secured Roketsan’s MAM-L and to deliver 50 KIRPI-II officials from the Qatari a contract from a Qatar MAM-C smart munitions. MRAPs and 35 AMAZON Coasts and Borders state tourism company Under the contract 4x4 Multipurpose WAVs Security Department and for the construction of 18 Baykar Makina also set to Qatar. Deliveries of the the Ministry of Interior in (8+10) ARES 17 CF luxury up a UAV Operation vehicles that were fitted Antalya. passenger ferries. The first Center and network- with Aselsan’s SARP RCWS two boats were delivered based data tracing and were completed in 2018. During DIMDEX 2018, in April 2014 and deliveries archiving software for ARES Shipyard received of the first batch of 8 ferries the Qatari Emiri Air Force. On March 12, 2019 Vice a follow-on contract to were completed in January Baykar Makina provided Chairman of the Justice and deliver three 48.5m ARES 2015. a 4-month long training Development Party (AKP) 150 Offshore Patrol Vessels activity in Edirne, Turkey Ali İhsan YAVUZ disclosed and six 24m ARES 80 Baykar Makina to 55 Qatari Emiri Air Force that in accordance with the agreement Qatar will Special Operation Boats, As pointed out above personnel including UAV buy up to 100 ALTAY MBTs to be armed with Aselsan’s Baykar Makina entered Pilot, Payload (probably from Turkey and 40 of them 12.7mm STAMP and 30mm the Qatar market in March CMX-15) Operator and would be delivered to the STOP/MUHAFIZ Remote 2012 with the delivery of 10 Maintenance crew, Gulf country in the first Controlled Stabilized x Bayraktar GÖZCÜ Mini who operate and fly phase. However, Defense Naval Weapon Systems. UAV Systems (each has BAYRAKTAR TB2-S Armed Turkey spoke to a BMC With this order while the 4 air vehicles) that were UAVs. The company also official during the IDEF total number of ARES ordered in 2011 under a provides 2-year logistic ‘19 Fair and the official Shipyard boats to enter the US$2.5 Million contract. support to the Qatari Emiri disclosed that there was Qatari Coasts and Borders During DIMDEX 2018, Air Force for the operation no formal contract for the Security Department by Baykar Makina secured a of BAYRAKTAR TB2-S purchase at that time. the end of 2020 has been contract for the delivery of Armed UAVs.

45 Havelsan

In December 2012 Havelsan secured a contract valued around US$49 Million for the establishment of an AW139 Helicopter Simulator Training Center in Qatar for the Qatari Emiri Air Force. Under the contract Havelsan designed, developed and delivered one AW139 Full Mission Simulator (FMS), one Flight and Defence Turkey Turkey Defence ©

Navigation Procedures © Trainer, one Cabin Crew The cockpit view of Havelsan's AW136 Full Flight Simulator Trainer Simulator, a Debriefing System and Training Center was not to Havelsan, at least a and Joint Operations a Tactical Control Center completed at that time thousand pilots can be Center. Computer for AW139 Helicopters. The it was decided upon to trained with the AW139 assisted exercise and all-weather AW139 FMS provide training service to Helicopter Simulator war-game systems provides high-resolution the Qatari Emiri Air Force Training Center annually. serve to improve the satellite imagery of AW139 Helicopter pilots capabilities of command Qatar’s 11,000km2 land at Havelsan facilities with Considering Qatar as one staff and headquarters in and medium-resolution the AW139 FMS. Chief of its strategic partners, a cost-effective manner. imagery for the entire of Staff of Qatar Armed Havelsan opened its first Systems and software that Gulf area (100,000km2). Forces Lt. Gen. Al-GHANIM Middle East office in Doha, allow the commander, In addition to this AW139 paid a visit to Havelsan Qatar in August 2017. On headquarters and leader Simulator Training facilities in August 2016 August 21, 2017 Havelsan personnel to imagine and Center (TCC), operated and performed a flight secured a contract from decide on any situation by Havelsan, also in thee AW139 FMS. the Qatar MoD for the they may encounter included were Computer During his visit Lt. Gen. establishment of a Joint during a real operation, Based Training Classes, Al-GHANIM also met Warfare Training Center, enable planning and Debriefing Rooms and and talked with Qatari which would serve all execution of maneuver, Infrastructure Facilities. Emir Air Force pilots and units of the Qatar Armed fire support, air defense, As part of the AW139 trainers who had received Forces and would be able command-control etc. Simulator Training Center Simulator Orientation to provide C4I services. In processes in battlefield Project, which aimed Training at Havelsan the Joint Warfare Training function areas under to meet the training facilities. 50 pilots from Center (JWTC), under realistic conditions. The requirements of the Qatari the Qatari Emiri Air Force development by Havelsan, JWTC, a force multiplier at Emiri Air Force AW139 were trained at Havelsan wargame, Computer the strategic level for the Helicopter pilots, the first facilities for a total of 600 Assisted Exercise (CAX), Armed Forces, is planned delivery took place in June flight hours. Havelsan planning and simulation- to be completed and put 2015. The TCC was among shipped the 47-ton AW139 based procurement into service within the year the first product delivered FMS (manufactured with a activities shall be carried 2020. to Qatar by Havelsan. local content rate of 70%) out. The Joint Warfare and It was followed by the to Qatar on December Training Center (JWTC) In 2019 Havelsan Flight and Navigation 22, 2016. The official consists of the following established a new Procedures Trainer and inauguration ceremony software and systems: company in Qatar, the Cabin Crew Trainer for the AW139 Helicopter Havelsan ETE3 Software named ‘Havelsan Qatar’. Simulator. Production Simulator Training Center (H.ETE3), Havelsan In 2019 Havelsan signed and Factory Acceptance took place on November 5, Social Media Simulation a contract to establish a Tests (FAT) of the AW139 2017. The Site Acceptance Software (H.SMS), a Data Center for the Qatar FMS had already been Tests (SATs) of the AW139 Television Studio and Armed Forces. The high- completed in 2015 but Simulator Training Newspaper Printing tech Qatar Data Center since the construction Center were completed Center, a Data Center, Project that includes of the AW139 Simulator in mid-2018. According a Simulation Software end-to-end engineering,

46 procurement, installation and commissioning of the Qatar Armed Forces Data Center in Doha/Qatar, will strengthen the company’s presence in Qatar. In June 2019 Havelsan also signed a cooperation agreement with Jaidah Group, one of the leading international companies of Qatar in the fields of energy, Yonca Onuk Yonca © telecommunication, © automotive and security, MRTP 20 cyber security solutions. Nurol Makina Mohammed Jaber LABDA, armed with one Aselsan’s With the agreement Programs Director of 12.7mm STAMP Remote signed in Doha, the In 2017 Nurol Makina Barzan Holdings, at Controlled Stabilized Qatar-based Jaidah (NMS) secured a contract a ceremony held on Naval Weapon System. Group will benefit from from Qatar for the delivery the second day of the Whereas the MRTP24/U Havelsan’s experience of 342 EJDER YALÇIN Exhibition. The NMS 4x4x FACs will be fitted with in cyber security and 4x4 tactical wheeled Wheeled Light Armored a pair of STAMP Remote will improve its cyber armored vehicles (WAVs). Vehicles of the Qatar Controlled Stabilized security capabilities by Nurol Makina started its Emiri Special Forces were Naval Weapon Systems as taking advantage of EJDER JALÇIN deliveries fitted with Aselsan’s SARP well as Aselsan’s remotely Havelsan’s products and during the second half RCWSs, SERDAR Anti-Tank controlled BORA Low solutions. Within the of 2017 and in December Missile Launching Systems Altitude/Short Range scope of the agreement, 2017, Qatar displayed for and IGLA SAM Launcher Naval Air Defense System Havelsan will establish the first time it’s EJDER Systems. Nurol Makina to be armed with MBDA’s a Cyber Security Center YALÇIN 4x4 WAVs at the started series production Mistral missile. At the end for the Jaidah Group in Qatar National Day Parade of NMS 4x4 WAVs in June of 2018, MBDA successfully Qatar and will make its in Doha. The displayed 2018. demonstrated the use of cyber security platform vehicle was fitted with the Mistral missile against available to Jaidah Group. Aselsan’s SARP-Dual Roketsan fast boats such as FIACs Under the agreement RCWs. At the National Roketsan delivered an (Fast Inshore Attack Craft). Havelsan will cooperate Day Parade in December unspecified amount of with Qatar universities Yonca-Onuk JV Shipyard 2017 Qatar also revealed MAM-L and MAM-C smart for the localization of had previously delivered the two prototypes of micro munitions to Qatar Havelsan’s solutions. In three MRTP16 Class, three NMS 4x4 WAVs that were for use on BAYRAKTAR line with the agreement MRTP34 Class (Qatar was equipped with Aselsan’s TB2-S Armed UAVs. Havelsan will transfer its SERDAR Anti-Tank Missile the first customer for technologies in the field Launching Systems and Yonca-Onuk this class) and 4 MRTP20 of cyber security to Jaidah IGLA SAM Launcher Shipyard Class Fast Intervention Group. Qatar has been a Systems. During DIMDEX Boats (FIBs, ordered victim of cyber security 2018, Nurol Makina During the DIMDEX in 2015 under a US$44 breaches in the past signed a Memorandum 2018 Exhibition, Yonca- Million contract) to the and has thus worked to of Understanding (MOU) Onuk secured a contract Qatar Emiri Naval Forces. strengthen its cyberspace regarding the purchase from the Qatari Emiri Meanwhile construction and relating data. In May of 214 NMS 4x4 Wheeled Navy to deliver four and delivery phase of 2017, for example, Qatar Light Armored Vehicles MRTP24/U Special for the additional six News Agency suffered a with Barzan Holdings. Operation Craft (SOCs) MRTP20 FIBs that were major security breach. The MoU was signed by and four MRTP24/U Fast ordered during DIMDEX This breach published Major General Hamad Missile Craft (FACs). The 2016 under a €41 Million false articles and released Bin Abdullah Al-FETAIS construction of MRTP24/U contract was completed private emails to the public Al-MARRI, Commander SOCs, which would be the in 2019. The boats were and caused diplomatic of the Qatari Joint Special Qatari version of Turkish armed with Aselsan’s tensions and an economic Forces; Dr. Anıl KAREL, Navy’s new SAT Boat 12.7mm STAMP and 30mm embargo between Qatar Deputy General Manager design, started in 2019. The STOP/MUHAFIZ Remote and other GCC countries. of Nurol Makina; and MRTP24/U SOCs are being Controlled Stabilized Naval Weapon Systems

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