IDEF Istanbul 2025: Innovations in Defense Industry and a First in Türkiye
The 17th International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF 2025) took place from July 22-27, 2025, at the Istanbul Fair Center (IFM). This prestigious event was hosted by the Ministry of National Defense, supported by the Presidency of Defense Industries, and organized under the management of the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation. Organized by KFA Fuarcılık A.Ş., the fair is recognized as one of the key gatherings in the global defense industry.
A Turkish First in Event Organization: Chalet Application
One of the most striking and innovative features of IDEF 2025 was the chalet application, which we designed and implemented. This marked the first-ever use of such an application at a defense industry fair in Turkey, attracting significant attention from visitors. With its modern design and functionality, the chalet areas enhanced the overall interactive and immersive experience of the event.
Participants and Visitor Profile
IDEF 2025 hosted professional exhibitors from 44 countries. In total, companies from 96 countries presented over a thousand new products, and more than 140,000 visitors were expected to attend. The event brought together CEOs of defense industry organizations alongside members of the press.
Exhibited Technologies and Innovations
The fair showcased the latest technology across three main areas: land, air, and naval systems:
Land Systems: Main battle tanks, armored combat vehicles, rockets and tactical ballistic missiles, air defense systems, and unmanned ground vehicles.
Air Systems: Fixed-wing platforms, air defense systems, electronic warfare technologies, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and aircraft engines.
Naval Systems: Combat ships, unmanned surface and underwater vehicles (USVs), and command and control systems.
Visitors also enjoyed interactive experiences such as shooting ranges, augmented reality demonstrations, museums, and workshop areas.
Highlighted Innovations
At IDEF 2025, the ASSAN Group introduced its locally developed hybrid power unit for military vehicles for the first time. Ahmet Akyol, CEO of ASELSAN, stated that integrating artificial intelligence into their processes saves approximately $25 million annually, and that they continue to equip their products with AI technology. The naval section of the fair featured combat and support ships, fixed-wing and rotary-wing platforms, unmanned surface and underwater vehicles, as well as command, control, and communication systems.
IDEF 2025 once again showcased Turkey’s strength and global influence in the defense industry, while providing a platform for new collaborations and the sharing of technological advancements.
