The Localization Process of Military Paints in Türkiye

Modern warfare platforms are directly affected not only by their technical equipment but also by the coating systems used. In this context, military paints are not merely aesthetic elements; they are engineering products that fulfill strategic functions such as durability, stealth, and electromagnetic management. In parallel with localization efforts in the defense industry, Türkiye has intensified its initiatives to nationalize military paint systems; however, this process has encountered certain challenges from technical, institutional, and strategic perspectives.

Since the 1970s in Türkiye, imported paint systems conforming to NATO standards have been predominantly used for painting military vehicles and platforms. Particularly, polyurethane paints originating from the United States and Europe, radar-absorbing coatings, and high-durability topcoat systems were used extensively for many years. As domestic platform production accelerated in the defense industry during the 2000s, the lack of indigenous alternatives for these coatings became increasingly apparent.

Military paints are not merely coloring agents; they are systems that directly influence a platform’s resistance to environmental conditions and its visibility against enemy detection systems. They perform critical strategic functions in the following areas:

• Radar-absorbing paints enable a reduced radar cross-section.
• Infrared (IR)-absorbing paints reduce visibility against thermal imaging cameras.
• UV-reflective systems support protection against high-altitude and optical surveillance systems.
• Corrosion-inhibiting primer systems extend the operational lifespan of platforms.

In recent years, significant steps have been taken in Türkiye to develop indigenous paint systems in collaboration with defense industry institutions. Notably, TÜBİTAK MAM, TUSAŞ, ASELSAN, ROKETSAN, and several authorized private sector companies are actively involved in this field. Key initiatives include:

• UV-resistant polyurethane topcoat systems developed by the TÜBİTAK Chemistry Institute.
• Radar and IR-absorbing paint projects conducted by ASELSAN and ROKETSAN in partnership with specialized chemical companies.
• TUSAŞ’s testing and certification of indigenous primer and topcoat systems on its own platforms.

However, most of these systems are still produced using imported pigments, binders, and testing equipment. Gaps also remain in certification and long-term field testing.

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The following entities play a critical role in the localization of military paint systems in Türkiye:

• TÜBİTAK MAM Chemistry Institute
• TUSAŞ Paint and Materials Laboratory
• ASELSAN Materials Quality Unit
• ROKETSAN Production Quality Department
• Authorized private chemical and paint manufacturers
• Localization projects conducted by the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB)

It is recommended that a national “Military Paint Technologies Platform” be established to facilitate more effective information and experience sharing among these institutions.

To fully localize paint systems within Türkiye’s defense industry, the following steps must be taken:

• Encouraging the chemical industry to develop domestic production of all raw materials used in paint formulations.
• Subjecting paint systems to domestic accreditation processes that comply with NATO and MIL-STD testing standards.
• Training specialized technical personnel in military paint engineering.
• Launching long-term investment programs for advanced technology applications such as adaptive coating systems, nano-paints, and sensor-integrated surfaces.