Turkey's state-owned defense giant Aselsan Elektronik Sanayi ve Ticaret AS reported that international orders have doubled over the past year, pushing its valuation to $37 billion. The surge reflects heightened demand from NATO allies and regional partners replenishing stockpiles drained by the war in Ukraine and escalating tensions across the Middle East.

Aselsan, which produces radar systems, electronic warfare suites, and communications gear, has positioned itself as a cost-competitive alternative to Western prime contractors. The order growth signals Turkey's deepening integration into NATO supply chains despite periodic political friction with Washington and Brussels. Export revenue now accounts for a larger share of the company's backlog, reducing reliance on domestic procurement cycles tied to Ankara's budget constraints.

For investors, the doubling of foreign contracts suggests a structural shift rather than a one-off windfall. Aselsan's ability to deliver mature platforms — such as the KORAL electronic warfare system and GOKBERK laser weapon — at lower price points than U.S. or European equivalents gives it a durable edge in price-sensitive markets across Eastern Europe, the Gulf, and North Africa.

The trajectory implies Turkish defense exports could challenge established players for market share in the next NATO capability refresh cycle. Much depends on whether Aselsan can scale production without compromising quality or triggering sanctions risk from components sourced through non-NATO channels.