Türkiye to Host Record-Breaking SAHA 2026 Defense Expo Showcasing 1,700 Global Firms in Istanbul

SAHA 2026 brings 1,700 firms and 140 countries to Istanbul for a premier defense and aerospace showcase featuring 150 signing ceremonies and drone war zones.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 23, 2026, 10:45 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Anadolu Agency

A Strategic Showcase of Technological Sovereignty

The Turkish defense, aviation, and space sectors are preparing for a massive international exhibition designed to elevate the global visibility of homegrown technological initiatives. Organized under the auspices of the Turkish Presidency, the SAHA 2026 event serves as a centerpiece for the "Century of Türkiye" program. Haluk Gorgun, Secretary of Turkish Defense Industries, noted that the expo is more than just a trade fair; it is a strategic platform intended to reinforce the nation’s technological independence. By bringing together prime contractors and innovative startups, the event highlights a high-tech ecosystem that has become increasingly competitive on the world stage.

Unprecedented Scale and Global Representation

This year's exhibition marks a significant expansion in both physical footprint and international participation. Covering more than 100,000 square meters, SAHA 2026 is expected to draw officials and procurement teams from over 140 countries. With more than 1,700 firms represented, the expo facilitates a multi-layered networking environment that includes government-to-government and business-to-business meetings. This intensive global representation is designed to integrate Turkish suppliers into international supply chains and foster long-term technical collaborations across Europe, the Gulf, and North America.

Interactive Combat Zones and Drone Warfare

A standout feature of the 2026 event is the introduction of next-generation experience areas that allow participants to witness the evolution of modern warfare. The expo will host specialized combat zones for unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) and a "World Drone War" event, alongside an FPV drone zone. These live-action demonstrations are intended to help military officials and tech developers assess real-world needs on the ground. By showcasing how these unmanned systems interact in simulated combat environments, Türkiye is positioning itself as a leader in the rapidly transforming landscape of autonomous defense technology.