Istanbul – Turkish defense giant Aselsan expanded its global footprint at the 17th International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF 2025) by signing a series of international agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs), reinforcing its presence in Africa, Eastern Europe, and the Caucasus.
Strategic MoU with South Africa’s PAMODZI Group
As part of its long-standing engagement in South Africa, Aselsan signed a new MoU with PAMODZI Group, building on the first local production agreement the two companies inked earlier. The agreement aims to deliver game-changing defense technologies to South Africa, leveraging Aselsan’s regional experience through its office established in the country in 2011.
Aselsan has significantly contributed to regional capacity-building via training, technical support, and local partnerships, helping African nations strengthen their defense infrastructures.
Expansion in Eastern Europe: Partnership with Excalibur
In a move to solidify its presence in Eastern Europe and the Balkans, Aselsan signed a cooperation agreement with Excalibur, a regional defense company. The partnership covers a wide scope of initiatives, including:
- Remote-controlled weapon systems
- Smart fuse and ammunition modernization
- Border security systems
The agreement is expected to facilitate joint projects beyond Eastern Europe, positioning both companies for broader international cooperation.
Multiple Agreements Signed with Azerbaijan
Aselsan also deepened its ties with Azerbaijan, signing an MoU with the Ministry of Defense’s Procurement Administration for the supply of:
- PUP 9661 and 3700 radios
- EHPOD electronic warfare systems
- HBT (Command and Control Information Systems) maintenance and capability development
The company will deliver domestically developed PUP Portable Satellite Terminals, enhancing Azerbaijan’s voice and IP-based communication capabilities.
Additionally, Aselsan received an operational license from Azerbaijan’s Minister of Defense, Vugar Mustafayev, granting it formal authority to operate and expand its defense activities in the country.
Other Strategic Partnerships
Aselsan also signed a memorandum of understanding with Miras Holding to explore new areas of cooperation in the defense sector.
CEO Akyol: “From importing radios to exporting radio tech”
Aselsan CEO Ahmet Akyol, commenting during the signing ceremonies, stated:
“For over a decade, we’ve been operating in South Africa. A company founded to ask whether we could build radios is now, on its 50th anniversary, signing technology transfer deals for radios abroad.”
The agreements at IDEF 2025 reflect Aselsan’s export-oriented growth strategy and its rising role as a technology provider and strategic partner in multiple regions.
Source: Bloomberght/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök