2025 TEKNOFEST İstanbul

2025 TEKNOFEST İstanbul is the 13th edition of TEKNOFEST, the world’s largest aviation, space and technology festival. Organized under the leadership of the Turkish Technology Team Foundation (T3 Vakfı) and the Ministry of Industry and Technology of the Republic of Türkiye, the festival took place between 17 and 21 September 2025 at Istanbul Atatürk Airport.

_{2025 TEKNOFEST İstanbul afişi - (}TEKNOFEST₎

The 2025 TEKNOFEST calendar was planned in three phases. The first stop was the TEKNOFEST KKTC event held in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, where the year’s festival opening took place and technology competitions across various categories were conducted. The second stop was the TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan event held at the Istanbul Tersanesi Command. The TEKNOFEST in Istanbul was organized as the third and final stop following these two events.

The competitions at 2025 TEKNOFEST İstanbul were conducted across 58 main categories and 137 subcategories. More than 565,000 teams and over 1,100,000 participants applied to the competitions. Teams that passed the preliminary screening received financial support exceeding 85 million Turkish Lira. At the conclusion of the festival, prizes totaling more than 65 million Turkish Lira were awarded to the winning teams.

The event program of 2025 TEKNOFEST İstanbul brought together elements of science, technology, culture and entertainment. The five-day program provided visitors with opportunities to closely experience defense and space technologies as well as participate in activities tailored to different age groups.

_{TEKNOFEST İstanbul uçuş gösterileri, 17 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

One of the most popular sections of the festival was the aerial displays. The aircraft featured in the program included:

• Türk Yıldızları: Aerobatic flights using eight F-5 aircraft.
• SOLOTÜRK: Solo flight demonstration showcasing maneuverability with an F-16 aircraft.
• Bayraktar TB2 and TB3: Demonstrations using unmanned aerial vehicles.
• Bayraktar Akıncı: Heavy-class unmanned aerial vehicle with long-endurance flight capability.
• TUSAŞ Anka: Long-endurance reconnaissance and surveillance capability.
• Hürkuş: Training and light attack aircraft.
• Hürjet: Jet training aircraft performing aerobatic maneuvers.
• ATAK Helicopter: Attack helicopter featuring flight demonstrations with weapon systems.

Aerial displays were repeated on different days and times throughout the festival.

ASELSAN created a digital experience zone titled “Tekno Macera” at the festival to commemorate its 50th anniversary. The 2025 theme, “From Corals to Stars,” inspired interactive applications focused on marine and space themes, particularly designed for children. Thirty-five different products were exhibited, including radar systems, electro-optical solutions, communication systems and underwater technologies.

The Science Pavilion hosted workshops, experimental applications and scientific demonstrations tailored to different age groups. Visitors could participate in hands-on activities in physics, chemistry and biology.

The Fetih 1453 area featured digital simulations and virtual reality applications related to the conquest of Istanbul. Visitors had the opportunity to experience the military and cultural elements of the era through a three-dimensional immersive environment.

The TEKNOFEST Time Tunnel displayed footage and highlights from past TEKNOFEST events. It also introduced visitors to the scientific contributions of prominent figures from Turkish-Islamic scientific history and recent times. Among those highlighted in the Time Tunnel were Battani, Razi, Ibn al-Haytham, Biruni, Ibn Sina, al-Jazari, Ibn Khaldun, Ulugh Beg, Ali Kuşçu, Piri Reis, Mimar Sinan, Katip Çelebi, Nüzhet Gökdoğan and Aziz Sancar.

A dedicated experience zone was created at the festival for the Çelik Kubbe air defense system, developed by ASELSAN.

_{The ASELSAN Steel Dome experiential area, created within the scope of TEKNOFEST İstanbul, on 17 September 2025 (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Here, the system’s components — KORKUT, EJDERHA, TURAN and HİSAR — were exhibited. Through animated films created using advanced visualization technologies, visitors could observe how the system operates against threats. Participants had the opportunity to experience the functioning of air defense components through practical demonstrations.

_{The ASELSAN Steel Dome experiential area, created within the scope of TEKNOFEST İstanbul, on 17 September 2025 (Anadolu Ajansı)}

2025 TEKNOFEST İstanbul allocated a dedicated area to introduce innovative solutions for agriculture and livestock. The approximately 2,500-square-meter “smart barn” concept developed by the Agriculture Technology Cluster (TÜME) showcased modern agricultural practices to visitors.

_{Tarım Teknolojileri Kümelenmesi “akıllı ahır” konsepti, 16 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

This section displayed autonomous milk milking robots, automated feeding and calf-rearing systems, manure cleaning technologies and harvesting and weeding machines. Additionally, biotechnology applications such as genetic breeding and embryo transfer, along with data collection and analysis systems, were introduced. A common feature of these systems is their focus on achieving higher yields while using less water and feed.

Numerous public institutions, defense industry companies and scientific research institutes participated in 2025 TEKNOFEST İstanbul. Some of these institutions include:

ASELSAN made a comprehensive participation at the festival in celebration of its 50th anniversary. The institution exhibited 35 different products including radar systems, electro-optical equipment, communication solutions and underwater technologies. Within its special experience zone titled “Tekno Macera,” the 2025 theme “From Corals to Stars” guided the development of marine and space-themed applications designed especially for children. ASELSAN also served as the organizer of six competitions and contributed to the event’s security by providing surveillance camera systems across the festival grounds.

STM exhibited its defense products and technologies at the festival. Its booth featured models of TCG İstanbul, the fifth ship of the MİLGEM project, the STM500 mini submarine, the KARGU strike UAV and the TOGAN observation UAV. The company also organized the World Drone Cup, offering young visitors experiences through FPV drone simulators, digital memory games and design workshops. STM engineers provided information to students about defense technologies and career opportunities.

TÜBİTAK participated in the festival with 12 thematic tents covering an area of approximately 9,000 square meters. The tents showcased projects ranging from defense industry to biotechnology, space research to energy technologies. At the TÜBİTAK booth, models of munition and missile systems such as SOM-M, SİPER, GÖKDOĞAN, BOZDOĞAN, GÖKHAN and GÖKÇE were exhibited alongside models of the Türksat 6A and İMECE satellites. Additionally, the model of the Moon Research Program vehicle, a rubidium-based atomic clock, the Özgün Motor prototype and the Eskişehir5000 train model were presented to visitors.

Practical workshops tailored to different age groups were held in the TÜBİTAK tents. Participants engaged in activities such as DNA modeling and molecular design, VR simulations, rocket building, energy games, polar research and metaverse-based exhibitions. Special sections for children featured periscope construction, hydraulic truck projects and optical illusion experiments. For the first time, the TÜBİTAK Shop opened at the festival, offering science books, models and popular science publications to visitors.

The Ministry exhibited earthquake-resistant housing projects, smart city applications and energy efficiency solutions at the festival. An “Earthquake Tunnel” experience zone was used to raise disaster awareness. Additionally, meteorological observation devices and a hackathon titled “Sustainable Cities of the Future” were included in the festival program.

TOGG exhibited its new model, the T10F, at the festival. At the electric vehicle stand, details of the vehicle’s design, battery technology and technical specifications were presented. Visitors had the opportunity to examine the T10F’s interior design and test its digital screens. TOGG’s booth was supported by information sessions on the future of automotive technologies and presentations of various concept vehicles.

HAVELSAN presented its artificial intelligence-based application, “Yetenek Kapsülü,” to festival visitors. This system was designed to simulate job interviews for young people, evaluating applicants’ responses through AI-assisted analysis. Participants had the opportunity to experience a realistic job interview scenario and receive feedback.

Software company RoofStacks introduced the game “Olpamis,” developed by its in-house studio RoofGames, at the festival. Inspired by Turkish mythology and centered on a story of brotherhood, the game has been developed over the past year and a half by a team of 30 people. A demo version of the game was made available to visitors, and it was announced that the game will be released on the Steam platform by the end of 2026.

Yeşilay opened a special booth at the festival as part of its efforts to combat addiction. In this area, social media content creator Yasin Aydın (Asitmen) conducted experimental demonstrations aimed at children. Visitors learned about the harms of smoking, alcohol, drugs, gambling and technology addiction through chemical experiments and visual presentations. The events aimed to raise awareness among children and youth by concretely illustrating the impact of addictions on daily life.

2025 TEKNOFEST İstanbul gained an international character through participation from various countries, including Syria and Turkmenistan.

Syria participated in TEKNOFEST for the first time. Under the coordination of the Syrian Ministry of Economy and Industry, several companies exhibited at the festival. The company Aviotech showcased its work in unmanned aerial vehicle manufacturing, presenting its drone models at the event. The company Afro, active in agricultural technologies, presented its solutions focused on irrigation systems to visitors.

A team from Ashgabat Turkish Anatolian High School in Turkmenistan, named Otto Gezegen, participated in the Educational Technologies competition. The team entered the competition with a project designed to facilitate the teaching of quadratic equations with one or two unknowns. The project aimed to help students understand mathematical concepts more concretely.

_{TEKNOFEST İstanbul etkinlik alanı, 21 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

2025 TEKNOFEST İstanbul was an event marked by high levels of participation compared to previous years, both in terms of applications and visitor numbers.

• Competition Applications: More than 565,000 teams applied to the competitions, which were held across 58 main and 137 subcategories. The total number of participants exceeded 1,100,000.
• Number of Finalists: Nearly 11,000 finalist teams that passed the preliminary screening had the opportunity to display their projects at the festival.
• Financial Support and Prizes: Teams that passed the preliminary screening received financial support exceeding 85 million Turkish Lira. Prizes totaling more than 65 million Turkish Lira were awarded to winning teams.
• Visitor Numbers: The festival in Istanbul was visited by 1,032,000 people. When all 2025 TEKNOFEST events (KKTC, Mavi Vatan and İstanbul) are combined, the total number of visitors reached 1,503,000.

2025 TEKNOFEST Istanbul is the 13th of TEKNOFEST, the world's largest aviation, space, and technology festival. The festival will be held at Atatürk Airport in Istanbul from September 17 to 21, 2025, led by the Turkish Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation) and the Ministry of Industry and Technology of the Republic of Türkiye.

_{2025 TEKNOFEST Istanbul poster - (}TEKNOFEST₎

The five-day festival program will feature a variety of events, including technology competitions, air shows, concerts, exhibitions, fair organizations, planetarium events, workshops, and simulation experience areas.

The 2025 TEKNOFEST calendar had two previous events before the Istanbul one. The first stop was held in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and the second was TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan, which took place at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard Command. TEKNOFEST Istanbul is the third and final stop of the year.

2025 TEKNOFEST Istanbul is organized under the leadership of the Turkish Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation) and the Ministry of Industry and Technology of the Republic of Türkiye. The event is brought to life with the participation of numerous institutions and organizations working in aviation, space, defense, and advanced technology.

The festival's core purpose is to bring the work being done in strategic fields under the National Technology Initiative to the public. To this end, technology-focused projects from both public institutions and the private sector will be showcased at the festival.

One of the main elements of the organization is supporting students, entrepreneurs, and technology teams through competitions and shows. The festival is designed as a platform where participants can present their scientific and technical work to a wide audience.

Competitions at 2025 TEKNOFEST Istanbul will be held across 58 main categories and 137 subcategories. More than 565,000 teams and over 1.1 million competitors have applied. Teams that pass the preliminary rounds will receive over 85 million TL in financial support. A total of more than 65 million TL in prize money has been allocated for the winning teams.

The program for 2025 TEKNOFEST Istanbul is a five-day event packed with a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy air shows, concerts, stage performances, exhibitions, workshops, planetarium experiences, simulation areas, and fair events.

The air shows will feature flights by the Turkish Air Force's acrobatic teams, Türk Yıldızları and SOLOTÜRK, as well as aircraft like the Bayraktar TB2 and TB3, Akıncı, Anka, Hürkuş, Hürjet, and ATAK helicopter. These shows are open to the public.

Concerts and stage events are a separate highlight of the festival calendar. On September 19, 2025, the artist Kıraç will perform a concert at the festival grounds.

Among the experience areas prepared for visitors are the ASELSAN 50th Anniversary Digital Experience Area, the Science Pavilion, the Fetih 1453 Digital Experience Area, TÜBİTAK Science Centers, the Beyond the Horizon Exhibition, and the TÜME Genetics Lab Tour. These areas will feature scientific demonstrations, hands-on experiments, and digital content.

The program also includes special flight experiences for students, as well as science-based activities and educational workshops for children. In the exhibition sections of the festival, Turkiye's land, air, and sea vehicles will be on display.

Attendance at 2025 TEKNOFEST Istanbul is completely free. Visitors must register online to enter the event. A separate ticket is required for each participant, but registration is not required for children under the age of 7. Entry and exit to the festival area will be permitted from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

TEKNOFEST Istanbul 2025 began on 17 September 2025 at Atatürk Airport under the leadership of the Ministry of Industry and Technology and the Türkiye Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation). During the opening ceremony, Selçuk Bayraktar, Chairman of the TEKNOFEST Board of Directors and President of the T3 Foundation, Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır, and President of the Presidency of Defence Industries Haluk Görgün delivered speeches.

2025 TEKNOFEST Istanbul’s first day opened with an opening ceremony during which Selçuk Bayraktar, President of the T3 Foundation, delivered an address. Bayraktar began his speech with the words: “Welcome to TEKNOFEST, where roots reach the skies and the course of history is rewritten!”

_{TEKNOFEST Yönetim Kurulu ve Türkiye Teknoloji Takımı Vakfı (T3 Vakfı) Mütevelli Heyeti Başkanı Selçuk Bayraktar, 17 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Referring to the nature of the festival, he said: “TEKNOFEST is not merely a festival. TEKNOFEST is the strongest protest against centuries of slumbering imitation and learned helplessness. It is preparing today for tomorrow’s competitions, not today’s. It is the cry of a generation that does not merely consume technology but actively designs it: ‘We are here too!’ It is our love to fly under our own sky with our own wings. As the poet said, it is the awakening of a generation that waits for the sunrise.”

Referring to previous milestones, Bayraktar stated: “This spirit this year transcended borders and reached our Sister Homeland. We embraced 270,000 of our brothers and sisters at the largest open-air event in the history of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. From there, we saluted the Strait with our Navy and welcomed hundreds of thousands at the Istanbul Shipyard during TEKNOFEST Blue Homeland. Now we are at home, at Atatürk Airport. These venues are proof of how vast the TEKNOFEST spirit is. The proof that this spirit will never be extinguished is the one million one hundred thousand young people who have applied to our competitions.”

Explaining the scope of the competitions, Bayraktar said: “This year we have expanded our horizons even further. With a total of 64 competitions, 13 of them new, we are breaking our own record as the world’s largest technology festival. Here are conscientious minds developing new solutions against cancer through the 3T Cancer Competition. Here are our youth safeguarding the future of our language in the age of artificial intelligence through the Turkish Large Language Model Competition. And here are the heroes of the National Technology Initiative, the future master technicians who will form the backbone of production, through the Vocational Skills Competition.”

Speaking of new initiatives, Bayraktar added: “This year we are also signing many firsts. At the newly established TEKNOFEST Champions’ Passage, we will proudly watch our youth’s dreams alongside more than 100 national technology products. Just as three rockets simultaneously met the sky at our Tuz Gölü rocket competition, we will leave many historic notes. We will embark on a digital journey through Fetih 1453 to honor our glorious history and bear witness to the technology that protects our homeland’s skies through the Steel Dome exhibition.”

Drawing attention to events targeting young entrepreneurs and science fields, he said: “At TEKNOFEST Science Street, the future Aziz Sancars of our nation will lay the foundations of our bright tomorrows. In the Agricultural Technologies Cluster area, our young entrepreneurs will plant seeds of vision through the power of genetic science. All this effort, all these broken records have one single purpose: to show our youth that they can turn their dreams into reality. This is our sacred struggle: reviving the self-confidence of the TEKNOFEST generation.”

Bayraktar then addressed international developments: “The world is drifting into darkness like a ship that has lost its compass. We are witnessing a dark era where justice and morality are absent, human dignity is disregarded, and the power of technology has been turned into an instrument of oppression. Before our eyes, the most brutal genocide of the modern age is taking place. Babies, children, and innocent people are being killed in Gaza. If killing babies is deemed legitimate somewhere, then no moral or legal boundary remains. This situation is an existential threat to all humanity.”

In his speech, he emphasized his optimism in the face of this reality: “With all my heart, I believe that when we fulfill our duty to uphold the compassion and justice our civilization commands us to, good will eventually triumph over evil. Good will surely prevail…”

Explaining the role of the National Technology Initiative at this juncture, Bayraktar said: “Precisely for this reason, the National Technology Initiative is not merely about building faster rockets or smarter systems. Our mission is to unite technology with conscience and reason with morality. Our mission is to achieve a deterrent power that says ‘stop’ to this oppression. This power lies not only in military, economic, and technological superiority but also in moral superiority. The TEKNOFEST generation must illuminate not only the skies but also the conscience, and develop technologies that preserve human dignity.”

He then summarized Türkiye’s technology vision: “The sole goal of the National Technology Initiative is to achieve a fully independent and prosperous Türkiye. High technology is the key to our bright future in every field—from healthcare to agriculture, transportation to communications. Here we do not merely see brilliant ideas and new inventions. We see the skilled hands and minds that transform these ideas into steel, code, and products. We see tens of thousands of our youth who will produce these technologies in factories and develop them in workshops tomorrow. Each project in these competitions is a harbinger of technology companies that will leave their mark on the world of tomorrow.”

Bayraktar also addressed the challenges of the digital world: “One front in the struggle for full independence is the digital world. Our national poet asked in his famous verse: ‘Civilization is a monster with only one fang!’ That monster today appears before us with a digital face: Techno-feudalism! Every piece of civilian technology we have purchased at a cost—smartphones, watches, the internet—is now weaponized. This technology, which tracks every step we take and even our pulse, has effectively trapped humanity in a web.”

Highlighting initiatives developed against this situation, he said: “The TEKNOFEST generation has responded to this digital domination with its own solution: we have launched Türkiye’s social media platform, NSosyal. NSosyal is a platform where everyone can freely generate ideas. NSosyal is a protest against global digital monopolization. NSosyal is where respect, courtesy as if face-to-face, and freedom of expression converge in our digital world.”

Bayraktar also mentioned another new initiative, the Sphere Digital Encyclopedia: “The TEKNOFEST generation has taken another step: the Sphere Digital Encyclopedia! This step is the result of meticulous work carried out over the past 18 months by T3 and our Kume Foundations. Sphere will be an AI-assisted, open-source, and above all, reliable reference source where every piece of knowledge clearly identifies its author. Sphere will be a living source of knowledge written and debated by you. Sphere will be the vessel of truth against disinformation and manipulation.”

On the importance of truth, he said: “Truth is like the sun that illuminates all darkness—strong enough to resist any mud, bright enough to escape any shadow. Truth is the most precious phenomenon that must be defended openly and courageously, as it has been for centuries. It is not a concept to be hidden behind veils or masks. In the age of artificial intelligence, where lies are encased in steel armor, truth will rise again, just as the sun rises every morning after millions of years.”

In the closing section of his address, Bayraktar spoke directly to the youth: “Children of our civilization with sunlit faces, we have not come here today to draw horizons for you. You are the horizon itself. Our duty is to fill the undersides of your wings with the strongest winds. We ask only one thing from you: do not narrow the boundaries of your dreams even to the sky. With inspiration drawn from our roots, aim beyond the heavens!”

Highlighting the role entrusted to the youth, he said: “Every project you undertake is a step toward the full independence of this noble nation. You are the hope of oppressed geographies. Therefore, your duty is not only to rebuild our country but to reconstruct the entire crumbling old world order with all its institutions.”

In closing his address, he called on the participants: “Come! Together, on this historic day, let us leave a note in history. Come! Together, let us build the ideal of a fully independent and prosperous Türkiye in the light of science and our ancient values! Come! With this enthusiasm, this will, let us carry our country together to the summit!”

Bayraktar concluded his speech with the words: “The future is ours! The future belongs to the TEKNOFEST generation! The future belongs to Türkiye! Our path is open, may our horizon always be boundless!”

At the opening ceremony of the 2025 TEKNOFEST Istanbul, Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır also delivered an address. In his speech, Kacır said: “There exists a Türkiye whose sovereignty is secured not only over its 780,000 square kilometers of homeland territory but also over the Blue Homeland, the Sky Homeland, space, and cyberspace—a Türkiye whose voice is powerful and whose strength is influential.”

_{Minister of Industry and Technology Kacır speaks at TEKNOFEST, 17 September 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Referring to the importance of the National Technology Initiative, he said: “The National Technology Initiative is the emblem of the Turkish nation’s rebirth on the stage of history and its claim to lead humanity with justice. This initiative is a revolution of self-confidence that shatters the narrow molds imposed upon us. This initiative is the name of a nation that, from Malazgirt to Çanakkale, has written epics on every page of history, now ascending to the pinnacle of science and technology.”

Kacır emphasized developments in the defense industry: “Today, Türkiye designs, develops, produces, and exports a wide range of high-tech defense systems—from SİHAs to helicopters, from land and sea platforms to air defense systems, from fifth-generation fighter jets to next-generation munitions. Türkiye produces its own national automobile. Türkiye, with its eyes fixed beyond the horizon, conducts manned space missions and develops its satellites and spacecraft with its own capabilities. Türkiye is advancing with a vision to become a pioneer in innovation across numerous fields—from nuclear energy and artificial intelligence to biotechnology and digital technologies, from mobility to advanced manufacturing.”

He also highlighted TEKNOFEST’s growing influence over the years: “At every TEKNOFEST, we have broken new records that multiply our hopes. Our youth, transforming their dreams into projects across countless fields—from biotechnology and artificial intelligence to barrier-free living and smart transportation, from education and agriculture to environmental and energy technologies, from chip design to blockchain and drone competitions—have elevated our hopes for the future.”

Addressing the youth, he said: “Let the arrogance of those who believe themselves invincible and capable of everything never deceive you. Let the barbarism of those who show no mercy in oppression, who kill babies in cribs and destroy hospitals, schools, and places of worship never break your spirit. Let the so-called powers that stand idle before genocide and the outdated global order, where justice and fairness vanish daily, never divert you from your path.”

Kacır defined the youth through historical examples: “You are the descendants of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror, who captured Istanbul at age 21; of Sultan Selim, who crossed the Sinai Desert; and of Sultan Süleyman, the sultan of sultans who crowned emperors. You are the bearers of love, not hatred; of harmony, not conflict; of unity, not division; of truth, not falsehood; of nobility, not vulgarity; of courtesy, not carelessness; of elegance, not ugliness. We firmly believe that you will carry the banner of great and powerful Türkiye to the peak of the horizon in the Turkish Century. We trust you.”

He concluded his speech with these words: “With your efforts and the sweat of your brows and minds, we will open more breaches in the walls that seek to imprison humanity. Together, we will carry our country to the horizon of the Turkish Century. We will always stand beside our youth through TEKNOFESTs, Deneyap Technology Workshops, our science centers, science festivals, the Sector Campus Program, our National Technology Academy, and our national technology workshops. We will build the necessary infrastructure for R&D and innovation through Teknoparks and projects like Terminal Istanbul, the world’s largest technology and entrepreneurship center rising at Atatürk Airport.”

President of the Presidency of Defence Industries Haluk Görgün began his address with the words: “Today we are here not merely for a festival, but to stand for a vision, to bring a generation to the stage, and to witness the rise of a nation.”

_{Head of Defense Industry Haluk Görgün, TEKNOFEST Istanbul, 17 September 2025 – (Anadolu Agency)}

Görgün spoke of TEKNOFEST’s development: “Born in this city in 2018, TEKNOFEST has transformed in just six years from a youth movement into a global technology brand that shapes the world’s direction.”

Addressing the youth, Görgün said: “The TEKNOFEST spirit teaches you not only to write code but to dream, to retry, to never give up, and to achieve together. You will not be mere consumers of this era but producers of good for humanity. We believe that the youth who create technology will be the strongest guarantee of our strong Türkiye.”

Referring to developments in the defense industry, he said: “Every step we have taken—KIZILELMA and ANKA III in the sky, KAAN, TCG ANADOLU at sea—bears the signature of this nation’s sons, forged through intellect, sweat, and passion. Each one is a mark of our determination for a fully independent Türkiye. With every indigenous and national system we produce, we demonstrate our independence, strategic resolve, and engineering prowess on the axis of science.”

In his address, Görgün also highlighted the sociocultural dimensions of TEKNOFEST: “Not only technologies but friendships, partnerships, and strategic bonds are being built. Türkiye is not merely a producer but a sharer, not merely a follower but a leader, not merely strong but an inspiration. Türkiye is not only a physical geography but a vast spiritual geography that finds space in its heart for everyone. You, the youth, are the greatest carriers of this vision.”

Görgün concluded his address with these words: “I extend my gratitude to the T3 Foundation, the Ministry of Industry and Technology, all public and private sector stakeholders, and especially to the youth who have empowered this event with their enthusiasm, determination, and resolve. I wish TEKNOFEST Istanbul to be hope for our youth, strength for our country, and inspiration for humanity.”

On the first day of TEKNOFEST Istanbul, demonstrations featuring various air and ground assets were held. During the event, Turkish Air Force aerobatic teams, national aircraft and helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, security force aerial assets, and civilian flight teams took to the stage.

_{SOLOTÜRK gösteri uçuşu, 17 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

On the opening day, the SOLOTÜRK single F-16 team performed a demonstration showcasing its high maneuverability, while the Turkish Stars performed a synchronized aerobatic flight using eight F-5 aircraft. Under the national aviation program, the Hürkuş training and light attack aircraft and the Hürjet training aircraft also performed in the sky, and the Gökbey general-purpose helicopter conducted a demonstration flight over the festival grounds.

_{Türk Yıldızları gösteri uçuşu, 17 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

In the unmanned aerial vehicles section, the Bayraktar Akıncı and Bayraktar TB3 performed flights, demonstrating their different altitudes and maneuverability capabilities. The TUSAŞ-produced Aksungur UAV also participated in the demonstrations.

_{Bayraktar AKINCI ve Bayraktar TB3 gösteri uçuşu, 17 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Under security forces, the Police Special Operations teams performed demonstrations accompanied by helicopters, and the Turkish Land Forces’ S-70 helicopters, known as the “Steel Wings” team, presented an aerial display. Additionally, paragliding demonstrations were held as part of the festival program. These comprehensive flight demonstrations continued throughout the day.

_{Polis Özel Harekat gösteri uçuşu, 17 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

As part of TEKNOFEST Istanbul, the TÜRKPATENT ISIF’25 – 10th International Invention Fair was held. The opening ceremony on 17 September was attended by Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır.

In his speech, Kacır highlighted the unique position of TEKNOFEST within Türkiye’s National Technology Initiative, stating that Turkish youth play a vital role in Türkiye’s journey to become a country that develops, produces, and competitively presents its own critical technologies.

_{Speaking at the opening of the TÜRKPATENT ISIF'25 - 10th International Invention Fair, held within the framework of TEKNOFEST}

Mehmet Fatih Kacır noted that all platforms are being opened for youth and that efforts are being made to accelerate Türkiye’s R&D and innovation journey, stating: “The International Invention Fair, this year marking its tenth edition, is part of these efforts. Under the hosting of the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office, this year we have brought together 470 inventors from 23 countries as our guests. We are also delighted to award prizes to some of them through our competition. Over the past 23 years, we have worked to strengthen Türkiye’s R&D and innovation infrastructure as well as its intellectual property capacity. Under the leadership of our President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, we have built a massive R&D and innovation ecosystem.”

We have increased Türkiye’s R&D workforce from 29,000 to over 290,000. We have increased the number of technology parks in Türkiye from 2 to 113, and the number of innovation-focused companies operating in these parks from 56 to 11,500. We have raised the share of national income allocated to R&D from 0.05% to 1.4%. We have increased Türkiye’s annual R&D expenditure from 1.2 billion USD to 16 billion USD. Kacır reminded that Türkiye has now reached the same level of R&D investment as countries like Italy and Spain, but emphasized that much remains to be done.

Kacır said: “During this period, we have allocated significant resources and made heavy investments in intellectual property. We have increased Türkiye’s intellectual property pool from 93,000 registered intellectual property rights to 2 million. When only 414 patent applications were filed annually in Türkiye, we have now surpassed 10,000.”

On the first day of TEKNOFEST Istanbul, the Turkish Academy of Sciences (TÜBA) TEKNOFEST Science Awards Ceremony was held. In his address at the ceremony, Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır emphasized that the TÜBA TEKNOFEST Science Awards are one of the key components of TEKNOFEST, and stated that Türkiye views becoming a country capable of meeting its own needs with its own capabilities and developing and producing critical technologies in strategic fields as its most vital survival issue.

_{Türkiye Bilimler Akademisi tarafından düzenlenen ödül töreni, 17 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Kacır further stated: “We know that without technological independence, economic independence is impossible; without economic independence, political independence and full independence are impossible. Therefore, implementing Türkiye’s National Technology Initiative is the most crucial element of our claim to the Turkish Century. Technological breakthroughs and initiatives are only possible through scientific progress. Therefore, supporting, strengthening, and converting our scientists’ work into added value remains one of our top priorities. With this understanding, these competitions are being implemented through the efforts of the Turkish Academy of Sciences, TÜBİTAK, and other relevant institutions.”

On the first day of TEKNOFEST Istanbul, the national aircraft engine TF6000, developed by TUSAŞ Motor Industries Inc. (TEI), was publicly operated for the first time on a mobile test stand erected at the festival grounds. It was announced that the engine would be tested and operated daily throughout the festival.

_{Cumhurbaşkanlığı Savunma Sanayii Başkanı Haluk Görgün, TUSAŞ Motor Sanayii AŞ (TEI) standını ziyaret ediyor, 17 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

President of the Presidency of Defence Industries Haluk Görgün stated that the test delivered the expected performance and that sharing the process with the youth was meaningful. Görgün clarified that this test was not merely for demonstration purposes but had the characteristics of an actual test at sea level. This sea-level test, conducted after previous tests at approximately 800–900 meters altitude in Eskişehir, was part of evaluating the engine’s performance under different atmospheric conditions.

TEI General Manager Mahmut Faruk Akşit noted that the TF6000 is undergoing maturity testing, while intensive work is underway for the larger, afterburning TF10000 engine. Akşit stated that the TF6000 will be used on platforms such as ANKA-3 that do not require afterburners, while the TF10000 will be deployed on aircraft such as KIZILELMA that demand high speed and low noise. He added that the TF10000 is planned to enter the market within a few years and will be one of Türkiye’s first indigenous designs in the fighter jet engine sector.

Additionally, TEI announced that it has moved the TS1400 engine developed for the GÖKBEY helicopter into the order phase and that serial production will begin within a few years. The company also confirmed that it has the infrastructure to increase production capacity and can open additional production lines according to demand.

On the first day of TEKNOFEST Istanbul, the 2,500-square-meter “smart barn” concept developed by the Agricultural Technologies Cluster (TÜME) was opened to visitors for the first time. The area showcased next-generation technologies for agriculture and livestock farming. Autonomous milking robots, feed pushing and manure cleaning systems, calf and lamb feeding devices, field harvesting and weeding machines, and sensors for heat tracking and rumination counting were introduced. Additionally, milk measurement and analysis systems, manure management and zero-waste applications, embryo transfer, and enzyme development using bacteria and yeast were also presented in this area.

_{TEKNOFEST Yönetim Kurulu ve Türkiye Teknoloji Takımı Vakfı Mütevelli Heyeti Başkanı Selçuk Bayraktar, Tarım Teknolojileri Kümelenmesi (TÜME) alanını ziyaret ediyor, 17 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Through this initiative under the goal of “Fully Independent Türkiye in Food,” TÜME emphasized sustainability in agricultural production and food security. The area demonstrated a model where one person can manage dozens of animals using automated ventilation systems, compost bedding, and robotic milking units. Visitors were also informed about projects aiming to achieve higher yields with less water and feed in modern agriculture.

_{Savunma Sanayi Başkanı Haluk Görgün, TÜME alanını ziyaret ediyor, 17 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

On the first day, high-level visits to this area took place. Selçuk Bayraktar, Chairman of the TEKNOFEST Board of Directors and President of the T3 Foundation, visited the TÜME area. Haluk Görgün, President of the Presidency of Defence Industries, and Ahmet Akyol, General Manager of ASELSAN, visited the agricultural technology booth to gather information. Additionally, Ömer İleri, Deputy General Chairman of the AK Party, and former Minister of Treasury and Finance Nureddin Nebati also toured the area. A delegation consisting of Serdar Karagöz, Chairman and General Manager of Anadolu Agency; Ahmet Serdar İbrahimcioğlu, President of KOSGEB; Mahmut Sami Şahin, Chairman of the Board of the Turkish Standards Institute (TSE); Bilal Topçu, General Manager of the Turkish Armed Forces Strengthening Foundation; and Naci İnci, Rector of Boğaziçi University, were among the visitors. Selçuk Bayraktar, Chairman of the TEKNOFEST Board of Directors and President of the Türkiye Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation) (left), visited the TÜME area.

_{ASELSAN Genel Müdürü Ahmet Akyol, TÜME alanını ziyaret ediyor, 17 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

The delegation received detailed information from officials of the General Directorate of Agricultural Research and Policies (TAGEM), the International Center for Animal Husbandry Research and Education, Dost Farm, and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University.

TEKNOFEST Istanbul’s second day was held with broad participation at Atatürk Airport. The festival grounds hosted visitors from various provinces of Türkiye as well as from abroad.

_{TEKNOFEST İstanbul etkinlik alanı, 18 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Bilal Erdoğan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation for the Dissemination of Science, visited various booths and activity areas during the second day of TEKNOFEST Istanbul. He first visited the Agri-Tech Cluster (TÜME) booth and gathered information on projects developed in the food, agriculture, and livestock sectors. He closely examined applications of smart farming systems introduced by entrepreneurs and researchers, noting that this field contributes significantly to Türkiye’s goals of increasing agricultural productivity. During his visit, he also experienced sound insulation systems developed for the publishing industry and acquired insights into their practical applications.

_{Bilal Erdoğan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation for the Dissemination of Science, visited TEKNOFEST on 18 September 2025 – (Anadolu Agency)}

Bilal Erdoğan also visited an oncology-themed area, which he noted was introduced for the first time this year at the festival. In this section, the 24 finalist teams presented their projects targeting lung cancer. The presentations, listened to by jury members, focused on innovative applications of medical technologies. Erdoğan stated that the projects developed in the health and biotechnology sectors were particularly impressive.

In his remarks, Bilal Erdoğan also addressed global injustices, specifically highlighting developments in Palestine. “We are living in a time when genocide is being committed openly, live-streamed before the eyes of the entire world, and humanity is doing nothing to stop it,” he said, drawing attention to current global crises. He emphasized that while technological progress continues rapidly, fundamental issues such as poverty, hunger, and access to clean water remain unresolved. In this context, he stressed the need for a humanistic touch in humanity’s story of progress.

Erdoğan stated that TEKNOFEST is not merely a technology and aviation festival but also reflects an approach that places humanity, peace, and tranquility at its core. “Strengthening Türkiye is essential to addressing injustices and oppressions worldwide,” he said, underscoring that Türkiye must grow not only in the defense industry but also across other sectors. He further added that Türkiye’s developed technologies should be shared peacefully with regions in need.

During his visit, Bilal Erdoğan expressed his interest in educational booths and noted that he watched the Solo Türk aerial display. He described the experience of seeing the GÖKBEY helicopter, Bayraktar TB3, and Kızılelma in person as exhilarating. He also drew special attention to research in agricultural technologies, emphasizing that agriculture must be viewed as a commercial and technological sector without distinction between urban and rural populations. He noted that agriculture holds great potential and that advancements in this field are vital to Türkiye’s future.

_{TEKNOFEST İstanbul etkinlik alanı, 18 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Fuat Oktay, Chairman of the Turkish Grand National Assembly’s Foreign Affairs Committee and Member of Parliament for Ankara from the AK Party, visited the TEKNOFEST Istanbul grounds on its second day. Oktay toured the booths, gathered information on projects developed by students, and took photographs with the young participants.

_{Oktay, Chairman of the TBMM Foreign Affairs Committee, visits TEKNOFEST, 18 September 2025 - (Anadolu Agency)}

In his assessment, Oktay emphasized that TEKNOFEST’s youth participation is growing steadily. He stated that the initiatives presented here demonstrate the emergence of a generation characterized by self-confidence. “The ‘I can do it’ mindset has taken root among young people, and this self-confidence is playing a decisive role in Türkiye’s development, from the defense industry to other sectors,” he said.

Oktay also commented on global defense expenditures, noting that the global defense sector has reached a size of $2.7 trillion and is expected to exceed $6 trillion in the near future. In this context, he stated that countries are making efforts to secure their own safety in a world filled with security challenges, wars, and conflicts. He added that Türkiye, under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, foresaw this vision early and made decisions accordingly, and that the results of those decisions are now being realized.

Oktay also recalled that Türkiye has companies competing globally, noting that BAYKAR ranks among the top five firms and ASELSAN has risen to positions 42–43 in global rankings. He emphasized that Türkiye’s rise in this field will continue and that defense industry achievements contribute not only to security but also to economic growth.

Mustafa Varank, Chairman of the Turkish Grand National Assembly’s Commission on Science, Industry, Trade, Energy, Natural Resources, Information, and Technology, and Member of Parliament for Bursa from the AK Party, visited the Agri-Tech Cluster (TÜME) area on the second day of TEKNOFEST Istanbul. Varank gathered information from entrepreneurs and experts at the booth showcasing smart agricultural technologies and examined the products and systems developed in this context.

_{Varank, Chairman of the TBMM Industry Committee, who examined agricultural technologies at TEKNOFEST, 18 September 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

While touring the area, Varank noted that he has been familiar with the Agri-Tech Cluster for a long time and that these initiatives make significant contributions to increasing agricultural productivity. He emphasized that the effective use of technology in agriculture plays a key role in transforming Türkiye into a self-sufficient and more productive nation.

During his visit, Varank remarked that young people and families have the opportunity to directly engage with technology at TEKNOFEST, and he highlighted that children and youth gain a more concrete understanding of technology’s benefits by observing practical examples on-site.

Ahmet Burak Dağlıoğlu, Chairman of the Presidency of Investment and Finance, visited the event area on the second day of TEKNOFEST Istanbul. Dağlıoğlu visited the “Alan” initiative, organized by the Culture Civilization Foundation (KÜME), delivered a speech, and gathered information on the activities being carried out there.

_{Ahmet Burak Dağlıoğlu, President of the Presidency of Investment and Finance Office, visited the Kume Vakfı booth at Teknofest and delivered a speech, September 18, 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

In his assessment, Dağlıoğlu noted that creative industries account for approximately 3% of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP). He emphasized that fields such as design, advertising, video games, television series, and cinema should be considered part of this sector. He also stated that these industries make significant contributions to Türkiye’s economy.

Dağlıoğlu recalled that since its inception, the Presidency of Investment Office has been among the stakeholders of the festival and highlighted the importance of participants sharing their projects and developing new ideas within these industries. In this context, he emphasized that creative industries contribute to the country both economically and culturally.

On the second day of TEKNOFEST Istanbul, the winner of the drone championship was announced. Hüseyin Ablak won first place in the final competition.

The first stage of the championship, involving 32 participants, was held in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), and the second stage took place in Yalova. Sixteen competitors who qualified for the final competed in Istanbul. Hüseyin Ablak, who also won first place in Yalova, earned the right to participate in the TEKNOFEST World Drone Championship through his performance in Istanbul.

Özgür Güleryüz, General Manager of STM Defense Technologies Engineering and Trade Inc., who visited the competition, announced that the first-place competitor will represent Türkiye in the world championship. Güleryüz noted that participants compete using drones they designed themselves, have undergone extensive training, and demonstrated great excitement during the finals. He also stated that the TEKNOFEST Drone Championship has significantly contributed to the advancement of FPV (First Person View) drone systems and that some participants have later taken positions in defense companies.

Hüseyin Ablak, the champion of the competition, achieved first place in all three stages—TRNC, Yalova, and Istanbul. Ablak stated, “I aim to represent my country with victory at the TEKNOFEST World Drone Championship.”

Aerial displays and stage events continued on the second day of TEKNOFEST Istanbul. SOLOTÜRK, Turkish Stars, and F-16 fighter jets performed demonstration flights; the ATAK helicopter, Hürkuş, ANKA, Bayraktar TB2, TB3, and AKINCI were also exhibited on-site.

 _{SOLOTÜRK gösteri uçuşu, 18 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan attended the third day of TEKNOFEST, the world’s largest aviation, space and technology festival, held at Istanbul Atatürk Airport under the leadership of the Ministry of Industry and Technology and the Türkiye Technology Team Foundation (T3).

_{Cumhurbaşkanı Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, TEKNOFEST İstanbul’da, 19 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

President Erdoğan began his speech by greeting the people of Istanbul and TEKNOFEST participants, stating that he felt privileged to be among participants in an atmosphere of immense pride and enthusiasm. He expressed his affection for the youth who are contributing to the journey from heritage to a bright future and extended his best wishes to young participants from around the world competing with their products and innovations at the festival.

President Erdoğan emphasized that at TEKNOFEST dreams turn into ideas, ideas into projects, and projects into technological products, and said that hosting the 13th edition of the festival was a justifiable source of pride. He highlighted how the atmosphere at the festival grounds and the excitement of the youth had transported him to a different spiritual climate, adding: “Witnessing firsthand the achievements of young minds and young hearts fills me with more than enough hope for Türkiye’s bright future. The TEKNOFEST generation, whom we see as the most crucial actor in Türkiye’s Century, once again overwhelms us with their accomplishments. Our youth are laying the stones of a great and powerful Türkiye with their posture, courage, self-confidence, and the magnificent works they present today. The young pioneers of our national technology initiative continue to be a source of pride for our nation. May endless thanks be offered to our Lord. May the Almighty never let a stone touch their feet.”

Erdoğan shared numerical data regarding the competitions, announcing that this year 565,000 teams and 1.2 million participants from all 81 provinces of Türkiye and 96 countries took part in the 64 different competitions of TEKNOFEST Istanbul. He congratulated the 13,000 finalists and winning teams and thanked the jury members for their efforts.

In his speech, Erdoğan stressed that TEKNOFEST has become a global brand, noting that the festival has welcomed 11 million visitors to date. He pointed out that a significant portion of participants are young people and affirmed that TEKNOFEST will continue to break records. He invited all citizens, especially the youth, to the event with the words: “Come to TEKNOFEST 2025.”

Referring to Türkiye’s position in technology and defense industries, Erdoğan said: “As Türkiye, we have achieved a markedly different momentum in technology, especially in the defense industry. Now, Turkish defense industry initiatives are being discussed not only in our region but across the entire world. The gains we have made despite all embargoes are by no means coincidental.”

_{Cumhurbaşkanı Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, TEKNOFEST İstanbul’da, 19 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

In a segment of his speech, Erdoğan emphasized determination in achieving goals, stating: “We came here with our teeth and nails. We came through sweat and toil. We turned our nights into days. We came through patient and sincere work. We came by preserving our faith and hope. We came at every stage as if risking our very lives. Undoubtedly, we have struggled greatly, endured immense hardship, and paid a heavy price—but we have never allowed any obstacle to come between us and our goals. Now look, dear youth. Behind Türkiye’s successes lie the pure efforts of our sons and daughters who fought tirelessly against difficulties, pressures and threats. In every product we produce and every technology we develop, there is the sacrifice of individuals who have devoted their entire being to their country. There is the vision of Nuri Killigil Pasha, commander of the Caucasian Islamic Army, who said: ‘I wish our efforts become an example for those who come after us.’ There is the horizon of Nuri Demirağ, who founded our first aircraft factory with the words: ‘Nations that do not master the skies perish beneath the earth.’ There is the sacrifice of Vecihi Hürkuş, who dedicated his life to Turkish aviation and declared: ‘The only path to national independence is through national production.’ There is the faith, belief and determination of the late Özdemir Bayraktar, my brother, who devoted his life to our defense industry, and many other names.”

Erdoğan also honored the heroism of martyrs and veterans and expressed his reverence for pioneering figures who contributed to the defense industry.

Referring to Türkiye’s global standing in defense, Erdoğan said: “We are the 11th largest defense exporter in the world. In UAV and SUAV technology, we are among the top three globally. We are one of only ten countries that have designed and launched their own warship from design to serial production.” He further detailed systems developed for land, air and sea: “With our UAVs and SUAVs, we strengthen our Gök Vatan; with our amphibious ships, unmanned maritime vehicles, frigates, corvettes, patrol and mine vessels, we strengthen our Mavi Vatan; and with our next-generation unmanned systems, tanks and autonomous armored combat vehicles, as well as our control, radar and electronic warfare systems, we enhance our power on land.”

He then recalled the entry of Çelik Kubbe on August 27 and said: “We have only just begun writing the epic of our defense industry.” He announced that new steps would be taken in artificial intelligence technologies and that the NSosyal platform had reached over 1.3 million users.

In his speech, Erdoğan also addressed Palestine and Jerusalem, stating: “Our struggle will continue until an independent and sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital is established within the 1967 borders, no matter what devious calculations they make.” He affirmed that Jerusalem is “the honor, dignity and pride of Muslims and all humanity.”

In his message to the youth, Erdoğan quoted from Mehmet Akif Ersoy and Ali Fuat Başgil, urging the TEKNOFEST generation to advance with determination, willpower and resolve. He said: “In every idea and every project, may you, God willing, transform the ideal of a fully independent and prosperous Türkiye from aspiration into reality.”

_{Cumhurbaşkanı Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, TEKNOFEST İstanbul’da, 19 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

President Erdoğan attended the festival wearing a TEKNOFEST jacket bearing the Turkish flag, the Presidential emblem, and his surname. Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler, Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır, Minister of National Education Yusuf Tekin, Minister of Youth and Sports Osman Aşkın Bak, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry İbrahim Yumaklı, Minister of Family and Social Services Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş, Minister of Interior Ali Yerlikaya, Minister of Health Kemal Memişoğlu, Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar, the TEKNOFEST Board of Directors, the Board of Trustees of the T3 Foundation Chairman Selçuk Bayraktar, Baykar General Manager Haluk Bayraktar, several commanders and festival stakeholders were also present on stage. President Erdoğan presented awards to competition winners, and Selçuk Bayraktar presented him with a gift in commemoration of the day. The program concluded with a family photo taken by the T3 Foundation and TEKNOFEST management.

On the third day of TEKNOFEST Istanbul, a “Joint Venture Agreement” was signed between ASFAT (Military Factory and Shipyard Operations Joint Stock Company), under the Ministry of National Defense, and Italy-based Magnaghi Aviation.

_{Signing ceremony of the Joint Venture Agreement between ASFAT and Magnaghi Aviation, held at TEKNOFEST, 19 September 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

The agreement was signed by Prof. Dr. Mustafa İlbaş, General Manager of ASFAT, and Paolo Graziano, Chairman and General Manager of Magnaghi Aviation. The ceremony was attended by Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler, Deputy Minister of National Defense and ASFAT Board Chairman Musa Heybet, Chief of the General Staff General Selçuk Bayraktaroğlu, President of the Presidency of Defense Industries Haluk Görgün, and Baykar General Manager Haluk Bayraktar.

Under the joint venture, it was decided to establish a “Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul Center” in Türkiye. The center’s primary focus will be performing maintenance and repair activities on landing gear systems of military platforms in the inventory of the Turkish Armed Forces. The initial project will involve the landing gear systems of ATAK helicopters.

The center is also intended to serve civil platforms, aiming to enable international exports and establish Türkiye as a major hub in the global aviation maintenance sector. Magnaghi Aviation is a company specialized in the design, qualification, production and maintenance of landing gear systems. It also focuses on developing subsystems such as hydraulic and electromechanical devices for the aviation industry.

On the third day of TEKNOFEST Istanbul, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar visited the Ministry’s booth at the festival and met with young participants. In his address to the youth, he outlined Türkiye’s goals in energy and mining.

_{Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar met with youth at TEKNOFEST İstanbul, 19 September 2025 - (Anadolu Agency)}

Minister Bayraktar emphasized that nuclear energy is a necessity for Türkiye. He stated that, like many other advanced countries, Türkiye must have nuclear energy and that clean, uninterrupted baseload power from nuclear sources must be added to complement intermittent energy sources. He noted that the first reactor of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant is over 90 percent complete and that construction of the reactors is continuing.

The Minister referred to the Nuclear Energy Technologies Design Competition, first held last year under TEKNOFEST. This year, he had the opportunity to hear the top four projects from the competition held in Küçükçekmece and stressed its importance for Türkiye’s nuclear future. He expressed his expectation that the competition will continue to grow in the coming years.

Bayraktar also highlighted the importance of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources, noting that Türkiye is turning to clean and domestic resources to reduce its energy dependence. He stated that ending energy dependence requires increasing energy efficiency alongside renewable energy.

The Minister emphasized the importance of mining for Türkiye’s economy and stated that the goal is to transform minerals into value-added products and integrate them into the economy.

At the end of his speech, Bayraktar addressed the youth, calling them a source of hope for the country’s future and expressing his belief that their efforts will make Türkiye’s future brighter. He later visited the Environment and Energy Technologies Competition booth, reviewed university students’ projects and engaged in conversations with them.

On the third day of TEKNOFEST Istanbul, the Ministry of Industry and Technology signed a “Turcorn 100 Program Partner Collaboration Protocol” with Entertech and Istanbul Technopark.

_{Turcorn 100 Programı Partner İş Birliği Protokolü imzalanıyor, 19 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

In his speech at the ceremony, General Director of National Technology Sadullah Uzun stated that their goal is to increase Türkiye’s Turcorn count to 100 by 2030. Uzun emphasized that the path for a tech startup to become a Turcorn lies through globalization, highlighting that international collaborations provide critical openings for accessing new customers.

Under this framework, with support from the Presidency of Investment and Finance, startups will be enabled to participate in international events. The initiative begins with Vivatech in Paris, followed by GITEX in Dubai, Web Summit and Leap 2025. Additionally, during the Türkiye-hosted Take Off event, the “Turcorn Lounge” concept will connect startups with global markets.

Alongside the signing ceremony, it was announced that existing offices in London, Dubai, Amsterdam and Brussels are now open to Turcorn startups. These startups will be able to use these offices for meetings or as workspaces. The goal is also to include co-working spaces within Türkiye in this initiative.

Doç. Dr. Muhammet Garip, General Manager of Yıldız Technical University Technopark, stated that they are actively opening startups to the world, supporting them in Dubai and London, and that this signing adds another link to the chain. Dr. Muhammed Kasapoğlu, General Manager of Entertech Istanbul Technopark AŞ, noted that they support startups in accessing funding and finding international customers, and that they opened their first overseas office in Amsterdam in 2024.

Rektor Prof. Dr. Esra Hatipoğlu of Bahçeşehir University stated that the university places great importance on such collaborations and expects them to expand rapidly into other fields. It was also announced that three technoparks are collaborating within a gaming cluster established to accelerate access to resources needed by Türkiye’s gaming startups.

The third day of TEKNOFEST Istanbul concluded in the evening with the Kıraç concert. After the concert, Selçuk Bayraktar, Chairman of the TEKNOFEST Board of Directors and the Board of Trustees of the Türkiye Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation), highlighted the lasting impact of Kıraç’s works on the younger generation. Bayraktar said that his high school and university years were spent listening to Kıraç’s songs and marches, and that he still listens to these works today, which continue to inspire enthusiasm.

_{The Kıraç concert, held on the third day of TEKNOFEST Istanbul,19 September 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Bayraktar emphasized that Kıraç’s songs and melodies hold an important place in the collective memory of society and stated that these works serve as a source of inspiration for generations building Türkiye’s independent and prosperous future. At the end of the concert, Kıraç was presented with a TEKNOFEST memento.

_{The Kıraç concert, held on the third day of TEKNOFEST İstanbul, on 19 September 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

TEKNOFEST İstanbul’s fourth and fifth days fell on the weekend of 20–21 September 2025, resulting in a large influx of visitors to the festival grounds. From early morning, families entered Atatürk Airport with their children.

_{TEKNOFEST İstanbul kapanış töreni, 21 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

During the fourth and fifth days of TEKNOFEST İstanbul, aerial displays were held. The SOLOTÜRK and Turkish Stars aerobatic teams performed flight demonstrations, while F-16 fighter jets participated with maneuvering routines. The program also featured flights by ATAK helicopters, Hürkuş, ANKA, Bayraktar TB2, Bayraktar TB3, and Bayraktar AKINCI.

_{TEKNOFEST İstanbul kapanış töreni, 21 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

On the fourth day of TEKNOFEST İstanbul, a special talk was organized by Yeşilay with Turkey’s first astronaut Alper Gezeravcı. The event aimed to raise awareness among young people about living a healthy life free from addiction.

_{Astronaut Alper Gezeravcı in conversation with Yeşilay at TEKNOFEST, 20 September 2025 – (Anadolu Ajansı)}

During the talk, Gezeravcı emphasized the opportunities space research offers future generations, the importance of disciplined work, and the role of a healthy lifestyle in achieving personal goals. In this context, it was noted that Yeşilay’s principles in combating addiction align closely with the experiences offered by space-themed activities.

In his assessment of the festival, Gezeravcı stated: “Under the umbrella of our organization, we carry out this initiative to rescue individuals from our society who have been pushed into harmful and truly disadvantaged positions, and to restore them as valuable members of this society, free from the obstacles and addictions they face.”

He also highlighted the importance of Yeşilay’s free psychotherapy and social service support in the fight against addiction, noting that these efforts play a critical role in reintegrating individuals into society.

Gezeravcı underscored that tobacco, alcohol, foreign substances, and gambling are “primary distractions” for individuals, and explained Yeşilay’s awareness efforts as follows: “Yeşilay’s efforts are exceptional in helping those who have fallen into this trap to rise again from where they fell, and in making their available resources more widely known.”

On the fourth day, the Patentle Türkiye 4th University Patent Competition Award Ceremony was held. Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır attended the ceremony and presented awards to the successful students.

_{Patentle Türkiye 4. Üniversiteler Patent Yarışması Ödül Töreni, 20 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

On the fourth day of TEKNOFEST İstanbul, the TÜRKPATENT ISIF’25 Award Ceremony was held. Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır attended and presented awards to the winning projects. In his speech at the ceremony, Kacır drew attention to the scale of participation in TEKNOFEST competitions, stating: “This year, more than 1.2 million participants from over 550,000 teams took part in the 64 competitions we held. Together, we have set a record unmatched anywhere in the world.”

_{TÜRKPATENT ISIF'25 Award Ceremony, 20 September 2025 - (Anadolu Agency)}

Kacır recalled that TEKNOFEST has been held 13 times in eight years, starting with only 14 competitions and 20,000 participants in its first year. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of intellectual property in the development of technologies, noting that Türkiye’s intellectual property portfolio, which stood at approximately 93,000 two decades ago, now exceeds two million.

He also noted the increase in patent applications, pointing out that in the past, only 414 patent applications were filed annually, whereas last year the number surpassed 10,000. He added that applications for the Patentle Türkiye competition have also risen, increasing from around 500 in the first year to over 800 this year.

Kacır also highlighted Türkiye’s progress in research and development. Over the past 22 years, the number of technology parks has grown from two to 113, the number of companies conducting R&D within these parks has increased from 56 to 11,500, and the R&D workforce has expanded from 29,000 to 292,000.

TEKNOFEST İstanbul 2025 concluded with a closing ceremony held at Atatürk Airport on 21 September 2025. High-level officials from the state and festival management attended the ceremony.

_{TEKNOFEST İstanbul kapanış töreni, 21 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

The closing program began with the awarding of prizes to teams that placed in the competitions. The awards were presented by Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz and Selçuk Bayraktar, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the TEKNOFEST Management Board and the Türkiye Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation). Also present were members of the TEKNOFEST Management Board, the jury, representatives of partner institutions, volunteers, and finalist competitors.

During the ceremony, prizes were awarded one by one to their recipients, and the winners of all 64 competitions held during the festival were announced. While Vice President Yılmaz presented the awards, Selçuk Bayraktar presented him with a plaque.

_{TEKNOFEST İstanbul kapanış töreni, 21 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Chairman of the TEKNOFEST Management Board and the T3 Foundation Board of Trustees Selçuk Bayraktar shared his overall assessment of the festival during the closing ceremony.

_{TEKNOFEST İstanbul kapanış töreninde konuşma yapan, TEKNOFEST Yönetim Kurulu ve Türkiye Teknoloji Takımı Vakfı (T3 Vakfı) Mütevelli Heyeti Başkanı Selçuk Bayraktar, 21 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Bayraktar emphasized that the events held under TEKNOFEST provided an extraordinary technological experience, saying: “We experienced a TEKNOFEST worthy of our National Technology Initiative. I sincerely thank all our institutions and all volunteers for their efforts. We also witnessed magnificent demonstrations. Our UCAVs, our national aircraft Hürkuş, and our national wings delivered outstanding performances.”

Bayraktar noted that attendees had the opportunity to view the works of technology champions and nearly 11,000 finalists along the Champions’ Walk. He added: “This year, TEKNOFEST broke records with 1.2 million applications across 64 categories. Our President honored our champions in front of the entire nation just two days ago. I sincerely thank our President for his unwavering support of the National Technology Initiative since its inception and for annually honoring the champions of our national technology.”

Highlighting that over a million visitors filled the grounds of TEKNOFEST İstanbul, he said: “Our greatest thanks again go to our noble nation. I also extend my gratitude to our esteemed media professionals and partner media organizations for carrying the mission and message of our National Technology Initiative across every corner of our cultural landscape.”

_{TEKNOFEST İstanbul kapanış töreninde konuşma yapan, TEKNOFEST Yönetim Kurulu ve Türkiye Teknoloji Takımı Vakfı (T3 Vakfı) Mütevelli Heyeti Başkanı Selçuk Bayraktar, 21 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Selçuk Bayraktar expressed heartfelt gratitude to his colleagues at the T3 Foundation and all volunteers, adding: “I saw many of our competitors accompanied by their parents in the tents. I also sincerely congratulate and thank them.”

Bayraktar noted that for a year, some participants prepared for a three-second launch, others for a cure against cancer, some for artificial intelligence in aviation, and others for financial technologies. He added: “They turned nights into days and poured immense effort into their work. I sincerely congratulate and thank them all, and I am proud of them.”

Bayraktar stated that he had witnessed how humanity’s entire accumulated knowledge and institutions had collapsed and been dragged into a terrifying darkness. He said: “We believe that the sun-faced children of our civilization, inspired by the values of justice, freedom, goodness, and compassion, will lift the world back up from where it fell. Hürkuş, with its courage, showcases all elements of Turkish engineering as it brightens the sky, and thousands of our young brothers and sisters competing in these tents will, God willing, sign their names to works that illuminate humanity across all other fields of technology.”

Bayraktar observed that in the world, high technology is being used as a tool of domination: “We see that every watch on our wrists and every smartphone we carry can be turned into a weapon. We believe that with the works of our nation’s and our young brothers and sisters on this field, humanity, crushed under technological domination, will rise again alongside our civilizational values, achieving peace, prosperity, and justice.”

Bayraktar emphasized that the works of young people are not meant to subjugate humanity but to cure its diseases and spread justice and goodness across the world. He said: “In this sense, I am proud of you, my dear young brothers and sisters. You will rise like the sun over the horizon of our civilization. You will build a fully independent and prosperous Türkiye. You will bring green hope to a just world. The future is yours, you are the future, dear friends. I sincerely congratulate you all. May we meet again in the world you have built, surrounded by justice, compassion, and goodness. Take care, in the care of God.”

Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, in his speech at the closing ceremony of TEKNOFEST İstanbul, emphasized that technological production is a fundamental necessity for the country’s independence and future. He stated: “We know very well that countries which only consume and do not produce technology have no future. Our claim to be a country that produces technology is vital for our independence, security, and prosperity.”

_{TEKNOFEST İstanbul kapanış töreninde konuşma yapan Cumhurbaşkanı Yardımcısı Cevdet Yılmaz, 21 Eylül 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Yılmaz referred to the competitions held during the festival and highlighted the importance of activities across various fields. He noted that competitions spanned a wide range, from rocket contests and model satellite challenges to unmanned aerial vehicles and air defense systems, from artificial intelligence to accessibility technologies. He specifically mentioned the newly introduced Rocket Launch from Underwater Competition, the Unmanned Ground Vehicle Competition, the International Children’s Science Competition, and the Architecture and Visual Design Competition.

He underscored that Agricultural Technologies Cluster was one of the standout themes of the festival, stating: “The agricultural sector is a strategic field; it will never go out of fashion. I extend my deepest thanks to you for bringing technology to agriculture.”

He devoted considerable attention in his speech to the development of the defense industry. He noted that the rate of domestic production had risen from the 20 percent range to over 80 percent in the last 22 years, making Türkiye one of only ten countries capable of designing and producing its own warship. He stated that Türkiye ranks 11th globally in defense industry exports and expects exports to surpass $10 billion in the near future, reaching double-digit levels. He also noted that Türkiye is among the top three countries worldwide in unmanned aerial vehicle technology.

Yılmaz placed the “Century of Türkiye” vision at the center of his speech, asserting that it would be the “century of technology,” and emphasized that the determination and efforts of young people will build a stronger future. He also addressed global injustices, particularly the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In this context, he stated: “We say not only in the sense of the United Nations but also in technology that ‘The World is bigger than five.’ As the Republic of Türkiye, we will be strong and we will defend justice.”

In conclusion, Yılmaz emphasized unity and solidarity: “We will be one, we will be together, we will be great, we will be Türkiye together. Strengthening our unity and solidarity, we will not only elevate our country to higher levels but also continue working day and night as a force standing up for all the oppressed, especially our Palestinian brothers in Gaza, to establish justice on earth.”