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Defense Industry and Aviation Careers in Turkey

Step into a career in Turkey's defense and aviation industries! Discover exciting opportunities in these rapidly growing sectors and learn how to shape your future.

In recent years, Turkey has shown significant growth in its defense and aviation sectors, creating numerous opportunities for aspiring professionals. In this guide, you will find comprehensive information on how to start a career in Turkey’s defense and aviation industries.

Entering the Defense and Aviation Sectors in Turkey: First Steps

Education and Academic Preparation

  • Engineering Majors: Electrical-Electronics, Mechanical, Aerospace, Software, Mechatronics, and Materials Engineering.

  • Master’s and PhD Programs: Programs focused on defense technologies, satellite systems, radar and weapon systems, and aerospace engineering.

  • Specialized Certifications: Certifications in CAD/CAM, flight simulations, software development, and electronic systems provide an advantage.

Internships and Work Experience

  • Defense Companies: Internships and young engineer programs at firms like ASELSAN, TAI (TUSAŞ), Roketsan, and Havelsan.

  • Aviation Companies and Airports: Technical internships on projects with Pegasus, THY Teknik, and the Türk Hava Kurumu (Turkish Aeronautical Association).

  • Research and Test Centers: Participating in projects at TÜBİTAK and university R&D laboratories.

Networking and Career Development

  • Industry Fairs and Conferences: Events like IDEF, TEKNOFEST, and Aviation Expo.

  • Professional Associations: Engineering associations and student clubs focused on defense and aviation.

  • Mentorship and Online Platforms: Connecting through LinkedIn, IEEE, and aviation communities.

Defense Industry Companies in Turkey: Career and Internship Opportunities

Turkey is home to many major defense industry companies. These companies offer various career opportunities for students and recent graduates. Prominent companies include:

  • ASELSAN: A leading company in electronics and defense systems. It offers internships and job opportunities.
  • TUSAŞ (Turkish Aerospace Industries): A company working on aviation and space technologies. It provides internship opportunities for students.
  • ROKETSAN: A company that develops rocket and missile systems. It offers career opportunities for interns and recent graduates.

Interning at these companies will help you increase your industry experience and shape your career.

Which is Turkey’s Largest Defense Industry Company?

Turkey’s largest defense industry company is ASELSAN. Founded in 1975, ASELSAN undertakes major projects in the fields of electronic systems and defense technologies. The company is involved in numerous projects both domestically and internationally and is continuously growing. ASELSAN aims to attract young talent to the sector by offering career and internship opportunities.

What Major Should You Study to Work in the Defense Industry?

To work in the defense industry, engineering disciplines are the most suitable. The following majors are particularly recommended:

  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Electrical-Electronics Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Computer Engineering
  • Defense Technologies

These majors offer students the opportunity to participate in innovative projects in the sector and develop their careers.

Which is bigger, ASELSAN or TUSAŞ?

In Turkey, both ASELSAN and TUSAŞ (TAI – Turkish Aerospace Industries, Inc.) are very important in the sector, but they differ based on size criteria:

  • ASELSAN: It is Turkey’s largest defense company in terms of revenue, number of employees, and R&D investment. It is a leader in electronic systems, radar, communication, and defense solutions.

  • TUSAŞ (TAI): It is Turkey’s leading company in the aviation and space fields; it is a pioneer in aircraft, helicopter, UAV, and satellite projects. However, its revenue and number of employees are generally lower than ASELSAN’s.

In general, ASELSAN is Turkey’s largest defense industry company, while TUSAŞ is the leader in the aviation and space sector.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the best defense companies in Turkey?

ASELSAN, TUSAŞ, ROKETSAN, HAVELSAN, and FNSS are Turkey’s leading defense industry companies.

Does Turkey have a defense industry?

Yes, Turkey has a well-developed defense industry; it produces domestically manufactured aircraft, helicopters, radars, weapons, and electronic systems.

Who can work in the defense industry?

Electrical, electronics, mechanical, software, aerospace, and materials engineers, as well as R&D-focused engineers, can work in the industry.

What majors does TUSAŞ hire from?

TUSAŞ hires graduates from aerospace-focused electrical, electronics, mechanical, software, and materials engineering programs.