Finland–Türkiye Cooperation in Defence, Technology, and Innovation

The Finland–Türkiye co-operation in defence, technology, and innovation was further strengthened at SAHA 2026, a major international defence, aerospace, and industrial cooperation exhibition held in Istanbul in May 2026.

The event brought together key stakeholders from the Finnish Defence Forces, government institutions, and leading industry actors, offering an important platform for dialogue and collaboration.

The Finnish business delegation consisted of 13 prominent companies and research organisations, representing a broad spectrum of high-tech expertise: Aspocomp Group Plc, Bertin Environics, Contle Container, Finnsonic Oy, IQM Quantum Computers, Miilux Oy, Nokia, Patria, QMill, Sisu Axles, Vaisala, Varjo, and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland. Together, they showcased Finland’s strengths in advanced technologies, ranging from communications and materials to digital solutions and defence systems.

A particular highlight of the visit was the strong focus on quantum technologies, an emerging strategic field with growing relevance for both defence and civilian applications. Finnish quantum technology companies engaged in a high-level meeting with leading Turkish counterparts, highlighting opportunities for deeper collaboration. Türkiye has been actively investing in this area, with its Defence Industry Agency (SSB) launching a national quantum technologies development programme in 2020. The programme covers critical domains such as quantum computing and quantum radar systems, where Finnish expertise is internationally recognised. In addition to SSB, key actors such as TÜBİTAK and Aselsan participated in the discussions, reinforcing the shared ambition to advance cooperation in cutting-edge innovation.

Alongside institutional meetings, the Embassy of Finland hosted a networking event that brought together Finnish companies and Turkish partners. The informal coffee break session gathered around 40 participants and provided a valuable setting for direct exchanges and new business contacts. Numerous B2B discussions took place, and feedback from participating companies was highly positive, underlining the concrete potential for expanding cooperation and developing joint initiatives.

The official delegation reflected the high-level nature of the visit. It included Lieutenant General Jari Mikkonen (Head of Logistics, Finnish Defence Forces) and Lieutenant Colonel Raine Pölönen (Defence Command Finland), as well as representatives from the Defence Attaché’s Office and the Embassy of Finland. The business delegation arrangements were led by Nilufer Alapinar and Pelin Gökçek Adıyaman, ensuring a well-coordinated and productive programme.

Overall, the visit to SAHA 2026 demonstrated the strong momentum in Finland–Türkiye cooperation, particularly in areas where innovation, security, and industry intersect. It also highlighted the shared commitment to deepening partnerships in advanced technologies and building long-term, mutually beneficial collaboration.