11TH ISTANBUL SECURITY CONFERENCE (2025)
“Defence, Security and Intelligence Revolution:
Doctrine, Governance, Industry, New Models and Institutions“
( 27-28 November 2025 | Wish More Hotel Istanbul )
“Defence, Security and Intelligence Revolution:
Doctrine, Governance, Industry, New Models and Institutions“
( 27-28 November 2025 | Wish More Hotel Istanbul )
Our world is rapidly evolving into a multi-layered universe of "security and defence" under the influence of swiftly advancing technologies and profound sociopolitical transformations. This transformation is reshaping not only military and technological capacities but also societal and ethical values, national institutions, and global cooperation mechanisms. The “Defence, Security and Intelligence Revolution" precisely refers to this multidimensional paradigm shift. The core issue is no longer merely "combating threats," but rather the ability to design a holistic security approach that protects human dignity and our collective future. In the new era, the variety of uncertainty and sphere of risk has significantly broadened the scope of the concepts of defence and security. Ecological issues, cyber threats, the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on social order and the rule of law, radical social movements, and multiple chaos scenarios are all elements that demonstrate security and defence can no longer be considered solely within a military framework. Therefore, the Defence, Security and Intelligence Revolution points to a process that must also be carried out in conjunction with human values, the rule of law, empathy, and ethical codes. The fundamental motivation is to contribute to the principles of this revolution at national, regional, and global levels.
NEW CONCEPTS
Technological Revolution and New Techno-Politics
The rapid spread of digitalization, artificial intelligence, and autonomous systems is completely reshaping defence and security strategies. Developing software and hardware ecosystems are bringing “techno-political“ competition to the forefront alongside the traditional understanding of “geopolitics.“ Today, countries' industrial and technological accumulation plays a decisive role in the balance of hard power; cybersecurity, data protection, and artificial intelligence regulations are becoming components of national sovereignty.
Autonomy and Artificial Intelligence: Preventive Security, War/Operation, Law, Empathy, and Ethics
Autonomous weapon platforms and artificial intelligence applications are fundamentally transforming approaches to defence and security. While rapid advancements in these areas offer the possibility of anticipating and preventing threats more effectively, they also spark new debates on how the laws of war, ethical principles, and human values can be preserved. Empathy, ethical algorithms, the proper regulation of unmanned defence technologies, and the development of AI law lie at the heart of these debates.
Radical Social Movements
Global-scale social and political waves directly impact the internal and external security strategies of states. With the widespread use of digital communication tools, societies are able to organize much more quickly, and movements capable of influencing large masses can emerge rapidly. These “radical social movements,“ whether based on environmental crises, social justice, or political identity, produce new risks and opportunities within the scope of defence and security.
Multi-Chaos Management
The world has entered a “multi-chaos“ era where multiple crisis scenarios can occur simultaneously. Climate disasters, epidemics, economic collapses, terrorism, and cyberattacks are crises that can stimulate another one, creating a complex risk matrix. Defence, security, and intelligence strategies must incorporate this multidimensional crisis management perspective and adopt flexible, multi-layered, and adaptive planning beyond traditional military reflexes.
Redefining Power Structures
In addition to countries’ security forces, technology companies, NGOs, and global data monopolies have an obvious influence on power. This disrupts the “state-centered“ balance of international politics and necessitates redefinition of power and authority. In the new era, the role and responsibility of non-state actors in defence and security should be increased, and balancing and regulatory mechanisms should be strengthened.
Revolution in Energy and Resources
The spread of renewable energy technologies is changing the nature of energy-related security risks and geopolitical tensions. At the same time, a new strategic competition field is emerging over critical minerals and mines (e.g., lithium, cobalt, rare earth elements). Energy efficiency, resource sharing, combating with climate crisis, and security policies based on sustainability are foundational components of future defence understanding.
Focusing on the Collective Future of Humanity
Defence and security can no longer be shaped solely around national interests. The shared destiny of humanity, the protection of the ecosystem, and the existential conditions of future generations are increasingly settled at the center of global policymaking. The perspective of “the collective future of humanity“ makes it necessary to think of security in integration with areas such as human development, inclusive growth, health, and education.
Revolution in Science and Consciousness
Breakthroughs in advanced scientific fields such as quantum technologies, genetic engineering, neuroscience, and space research directly influence defence, security, and intelligence strategies. Science and technology offer new opportunities in areas like biosecurity, interventions on the human body and mind, and developing security capacities, while also bringing uncertainties that require new legal and ethical regulations. How cognitive warfare will be reflected on the battlefield remains uncertain.
Layers of Political Psychology and Security
The psychological vulnerabilities of individuals and societies have shown that perception management and propaganda strategies can yield much more powerful outcomes. When political psychology is seen as an inseparable part of security and defence, mental endurance and awareness become central to coping with threats such as terrorism, hybrid warfare/struggles, disinformation, and cyberattacks.
Transrational Peace Philosophy and Security
The “transrational“ peace philosophy and security, which go beyond traditional rational interest calculations, represent an approach that includes human values, spirituality, and collective consciousness. This philosophy can deepen the “inclusive security“ approach by taking cultural, spiritual, and psychological factors into account in preventing and resolving conflicts.
Complex Systems Approach and Security
In today’s world, understanding and managing interconnected, multi-actor, and high-uncertainty systems require a complex systems science approach. Security, defence, and intelligence strategies should aim to model dynamic systems, detect unforeseen risks, and develop multidimensional intervention capabilities.
PRIORITIES IN THE PREVENTIVE SECURITY, DEFENCE AND INTELLIGENCE ECOSYSTEM
The ever-expanding dimensions of the defence and security ecosystem necessitate the development of holistic solutions in the following areas:
· Mental Security, Generational Security, Family-Youth Security: Protecting the mental and emotional well-being of society has become a strategic priority. Robust emotional immunity is essential against the threats of psychological operations and disinformation.
· Faith, State, Climate, Air, Water, Food, Demography: Various layers ranging from climate change to food supply and migration movements, and from social cohesion to institutional structures, should be placed at the center of national and regional security strategies.
· Meritocracy, Economy, Health, Education, Employment: Social justice, economic sustainability, and high-quality education standards foster long-term stability and security. Crises in these areas may lead to destructive fluctuations within the defence, security, and intelligence ecosystem.
· Cyber, Space, Strategic Infrastructure and Urban Security: Attacks and manipulations in digital platforms, space-based threats (such as attacks on satellites, space debris, etc.), and security vulnerabilities in metropolitan areas, along with the protection of critical infrastructure facilities, are among the most crucial security priorities of the near future.
NEW NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTIONS
· Artificial Intelligence Regulation
To ensure the ethical, responsible, and human rights–respectfull use of artificial intelligence, binding rules are required at both national and international levels. “Artificial Intelligence Regulation Institutions“ or multilateral platforms established for this purpose will provide a common ground for the security of the future.
· Ecosystem Governance - Defence, Security, and Intelligence Planning | Doctrine and Inventory
The reconstructing of ecosystem force units and cyber forces according to new conditions, flexible inventory planning based on different threat types, and force integration are areas that require professional new governance mechanisms.
· Educational Transformation and Institutional Modelling
In parallel with the transformation of defence and security concepts, alongside traditional military/police/security schools and academies, it is becoming increasingly important to establish institutional models that incorporate diverse specialties such as law, AI ethics, psychology, and sociology. Managing brain drain is also one of the top priorities for present and future success.
· Thought and Innovation Ecosystem
Strategic research centers, universities, and innovation laboratories play a crucial role in the development of new defence/security concepts and technologies. A multi-dimensional and continuous interaction must be ensured among the private sector, public institutions, and civil society within this ecosystem.
NATIONAL MODELS
Nation-state models such as those of the United States, China, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, Türkiye, and Brazil have different approaches to security and defence; however, the common ground emphasizes the determinative role of technology and the necessity of institutional flexibility. While the experiences of these countries present various visionary examples in the process of the “Defence, Security and Intelligence Revolution,“ they also stand out with their strategic investment and regulatory practices in fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, energy, and space studies.
ORGANIZATIONAL MODELS
International organizations such as the UN, NATO, EU, Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the Organization of Turkic States will continue to play key roles in shaping the defence, security, and intelligence ecosystem in the new era. However, the effectiveness of these organizations largely depends on their ability to adapt to “new risks“ and to develop inclusive, multi-stakeholder cooperation mechanisms.
· UN: The global peace and security framework needs to update the UN Charter and international law to address new threats.
· NATO / EU: Must go far beyond the traditional defence alliance approach and expand its capacity to respond to cyber space, space security, and hybrid threats. On the other hand, depending on the paradigm shift of the new U.S. administration, fundamental questions such as NATO’s transformation scenarios and another potential failure of the European Security Architecture will determine the future of the alliance.
· SCO and the Organization of Turkic States: At the regional level, a common defence concept can be strengthened around issues such as energy, food and supply chain security, and technology sharing.
CONCLUSION | TOWARDS A NEW SECURITY PARADIGM
The transformation under the title “Defence, Security and Intelligence Revolution: Doctrine, Governance, Industry, New Models and Institutions“ is not solely the task of armed forces or the security bureaucracy. This revolution requires the active participation of all segments of society and the shared values of humanity.
A collective effort is essential—one that integrates technological breakthroughs with the human dimension, values foresight and adaptability, and builds a solid ethical and legal foundation. At its core, future defence and security strategies must focus on protecting the holistic existence of humanity, the common good, and the ecosystem.
New institutions, new models, and multi-stakeholder cooperation processes are of vital importance for sustaining this effort. In a world full of uncertainties, the “Defence, Security and Intelligence Revolution“ should be a comprehensive and inclusive roadmap that considers the benefit of everyone - from individuals to states, from international organizations to civil society. Since 2015, the Istanbul Security Conference, held annually, has contributed to understanding the newly emerging world. With Istanbul as a source of inspiration through its historical and contemporary references, and through Türkiye’s intellectual accumulation and East - West experience, the conference supports Türkiye’s role as a global wise actor.
Main Theme
Defence, Security and Intelligence Revolution: Doctrine, Governance, Industry, New Models and Institutions
Sub-Themes
New Concepts
- Technological Revolution and New Techno-Politics
- Autonomy and Artificial Intelligence: Preventive Security, War/Operations, Law, Empathy and Ethics
- Radical Social Movements | Multi-Chaos Management
- Redefining Power Structures
- Revolution in Energy and Resources
- Focusing on the Collective Future of Humanity
- Revolution in Science and Consciousness
- Layers of Political Psychology and Security
- Transrational Peace Philosophy and Security
- Complex Systems Approach and Security
Priorities in the Preventive Defence, Security and Intelligence Ecosystem
- Mental, Generational, Family-Youth, Faith, State, Climate, Air, Water, Food, Demography, Meritocracy, Economy, Health, Education, Employment, Cyber, Space, Strategic Infrastructure and Urban Security
New National and International Institutions
- Artificial Intelligence Regulation
- Ecosystem Governance: Defence/Security Planning | Doctrine and Inventory
- Educational Transformation and Institutional Modeling
- Thought and Innovation Ecosystem
National Models
USA | China | United Kingdom | France | Russia | Türkiye | Brazil
Organization Models
UN | NATO / EU | SCO | Organization of Turkic States
The rapid spread of digitalization, artificial intelligence, and autonomous systems is completely reshaping defence and security strategies. Developing software and hardware ecosystems are bringing “techno-political“ competition to the forefront alongside the traditional understanding of “geopolitics.“ Today, countries' industrial and technological accumulation plays a decisive role in the balance of hard power; cybersecurity, data protection, and artificial intelligence regulations are becoming components of national sovereignty.
Autonomy and Artificial Intelligence: Preventive Security, War/Operation, Law, Empathy, and Ethics
Autonomous weapon platforms and artificial intelligence applications are fundamentally transforming approaches to defence and security. While rapid advancements in these areas offer the possibility of anticipating and preventing threats more effectively, they also spark new debates on how the laws of war, ethical principles, and human values can be preserved. Empathy, ethical algorithms, the proper regulation of unmanned defence technologies, and the development of AI law lie at the heart of these debates.
Radical Social Movements
Global-scale social and political waves directly impact the internal and external security strategies of states. With the widespread use of digital communication tools, societies are able to organize much more quickly, and movements capable of influencing large masses can emerge rapidly. These “radical social movements,“ whether based on environmental crises, social justice, or political identity, produce new risks and opportunities within the scope of defence and security.
Multi-Chaos Management
The world has entered a “multi-chaos“ era where multiple crisis scenarios can occur simultaneously. Climate disasters, epidemics, economic collapses, terrorism, and cyberattacks are crises that can stimulate another one, creating a complex risk matrix. Defence, security, and intelligence strategies must incorporate this multidimensional crisis management perspective and adopt flexible, multi-layered, and adaptive planning beyond traditional military reflexes.
Redefining Power Structures
In addition to countries’ security forces, technology companies, NGOs, and global data monopolies have an obvious influence on power. This disrupts the “state-centered“ balance of international politics and necessitates redefinition of power and authority. In the new era, the role and responsibility of non-state actors in defence and security should be increased, and balancing and regulatory mechanisms should be strengthened.
Revolution in Energy and Resources
The spread of renewable energy technologies is changing the nature of energy-related security risks and geopolitical tensions. At the same time, a new strategic competition field is emerging over critical minerals and mines (e.g., lithium, cobalt, rare earth elements). Energy efficiency, resource sharing, combating with climate crisis, and security policies based on sustainability are foundational components of future defence understanding.
Focusing on the Collective Future of Humanity
Defence and security can no longer be shaped solely around national interests. The shared destiny of humanity, the protection of the ecosystem, and the existential conditions of future generations are increasingly settled at the center of global policymaking. The perspective of “the collective future of humanity“ makes it necessary to think of security in integration with areas such as human development, inclusive growth, health, and education.
Revolution in Science and Consciousness
Breakthroughs in advanced scientific fields such as quantum technologies, genetic engineering, neuroscience, and space research directly influence defence, security, and intelligence strategies. Science and technology offer new opportunities in areas like biosecurity, interventions on the human body and mind, and developing security capacities, while also bringing uncertainties that require new legal and ethical regulations. How cognitive warfare will be reflected on the battlefield remains uncertain.
Layers of Political Psychology and Security
The psychological vulnerabilities of individuals and societies have shown that perception management and propaganda strategies can yield much more powerful outcomes. When political psychology is seen as an inseparable part of security and defence, mental endurance and awareness become central to coping with threats such as terrorism, hybrid warfare/struggles, disinformation, and cyberattacks.
Transrational Peace Philosophy and Security
The “transrational“ peace philosophy and security, which go beyond traditional rational interest calculations, represent an approach that includes human values, spirituality, and collective consciousness. This philosophy can deepen the “inclusive security“ approach by taking cultural, spiritual, and psychological factors into account in preventing and resolving conflicts.
Complex Systems Approach and Security
In today’s world, understanding and managing interconnected, multi-actor, and high-uncertainty systems require a complex systems science approach. Security, defence, and intelligence strategies should aim to model dynamic systems, detect unforeseen risks, and develop multidimensional intervention capabilities.
PRIORITIES IN THE PREVENTIVE SECURITY, DEFENCE AND INTELLIGENCE ECOSYSTEM
The ever-expanding dimensions of the defence and security ecosystem necessitate the development of holistic solutions in the following areas:
· Mental Security, Generational Security, Family-Youth Security: Protecting the mental and emotional well-being of society has become a strategic priority. Robust emotional immunity is essential against the threats of psychological operations and disinformation.
· Faith, State, Climate, Air, Water, Food, Demography: Various layers ranging from climate change to food supply and migration movements, and from social cohesion to institutional structures, should be placed at the center of national and regional security strategies.
· Meritocracy, Economy, Health, Education, Employment: Social justice, economic sustainability, and high-quality education standards foster long-term stability and security. Crises in these areas may lead to destructive fluctuations within the defence, security, and intelligence ecosystem.
· Cyber, Space, Strategic Infrastructure and Urban Security: Attacks and manipulations in digital platforms, space-based threats (such as attacks on satellites, space debris, etc.), and security vulnerabilities in metropolitan areas, along with the protection of critical infrastructure facilities, are among the most crucial security priorities of the near future.
NEW NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTIONS
· Artificial Intelligence Regulation
To ensure the ethical, responsible, and human rights–respectfull use of artificial intelligence, binding rules are required at both national and international levels. “Artificial Intelligence Regulation Institutions“ or multilateral platforms established for this purpose will provide a common ground for the security of the future.
· Ecosystem Governance - Defence, Security, and Intelligence Planning | Doctrine and Inventory
The reconstructing of ecosystem force units and cyber forces according to new conditions, flexible inventory planning based on different threat types, and force integration are areas that require professional new governance mechanisms.
· Educational Transformation and Institutional Modelling
In parallel with the transformation of defence and security concepts, alongside traditional military/police/security schools and academies, it is becoming increasingly important to establish institutional models that incorporate diverse specialties such as law, AI ethics, psychology, and sociology. Managing brain drain is also one of the top priorities for present and future success.
· Thought and Innovation Ecosystem
Strategic research centers, universities, and innovation laboratories play a crucial role in the development of new defence/security concepts and technologies. A multi-dimensional and continuous interaction must be ensured among the private sector, public institutions, and civil society within this ecosystem.
NATIONAL MODELS
Nation-state models such as those of the United States, China, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, Türkiye, and Brazil have different approaches to security and defence; however, the common ground emphasizes the determinative role of technology and the necessity of institutional flexibility. While the experiences of these countries present various visionary examples in the process of the “Defence, Security and Intelligence Revolution,“ they also stand out with their strategic investment and regulatory practices in fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, energy, and space studies.
ORGANIZATIONAL MODELS
International organizations such as the UN, NATO, EU, Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the Organization of Turkic States will continue to play key roles in shaping the defence, security, and intelligence ecosystem in the new era. However, the effectiveness of these organizations largely depends on their ability to adapt to “new risks“ and to develop inclusive, multi-stakeholder cooperation mechanisms.
· UN: The global peace and security framework needs to update the UN Charter and international law to address new threats.
· NATO / EU: Must go far beyond the traditional defence alliance approach and expand its capacity to respond to cyber space, space security, and hybrid threats. On the other hand, depending on the paradigm shift of the new U.S. administration, fundamental questions such as NATO’s transformation scenarios and another potential failure of the European Security Architecture will determine the future of the alliance.
· SCO and the Organization of Turkic States: At the regional level, a common defence concept can be strengthened around issues such as energy, food and supply chain security, and technology sharing.
CONCLUSION | TOWARDS A NEW SECURITY PARADIGM
The transformation under the title “Defence, Security and Intelligence Revolution: Doctrine, Governance, Industry, New Models and Institutions“ is not solely the task of armed forces or the security bureaucracy. This revolution requires the active participation of all segments of society and the shared values of humanity.
A collective effort is essential—one that integrates technological breakthroughs with the human dimension, values foresight and adaptability, and builds a solid ethical and legal foundation. At its core, future defence and security strategies must focus on protecting the holistic existence of humanity, the common good, and the ecosystem.
New institutions, new models, and multi-stakeholder cooperation processes are of vital importance for sustaining this effort. In a world full of uncertainties, the “Defence, Security and Intelligence Revolution“ should be a comprehensive and inclusive roadmap that considers the benefit of everyone - from individuals to states, from international organizations to civil society. Since 2015, the Istanbul Security Conference, held annually, has contributed to understanding the newly emerging world. With Istanbul as a source of inspiration through its historical and contemporary references, and through Türkiye’s intellectual accumulation and East - West experience, the conference supports Türkiye’s role as a global wise actor.
Main Theme
Defence, Security and Intelligence Revolution: Doctrine, Governance, Industry, New Models and Institutions
Sub-Themes
New Concepts
- Technological Revolution and New Techno-Politics
- Autonomy and Artificial Intelligence: Preventive Security, War/Operations, Law, Empathy and Ethics
- Radical Social Movements | Multi-Chaos Management
- Redefining Power Structures
- Revolution in Energy and Resources
- Focusing on the Collective Future of Humanity
- Revolution in Science and Consciousness
- Layers of Political Psychology and Security
- Transrational Peace Philosophy and Security
- Complex Systems Approach and Security
Priorities in the Preventive Defence, Security and Intelligence Ecosystem
- Mental, Generational, Family-Youth, Faith, State, Climate, Air, Water, Food, Demography, Meritocracy, Economy, Health, Education, Employment, Cyber, Space, Strategic Infrastructure and Urban Security
New National and International Institutions
- Artificial Intelligence Regulation
- Ecosystem Governance: Defence/Security Planning | Doctrine and Inventory
- Educational Transformation and Institutional Modeling
- Thought and Innovation Ecosystem
National Models
USA | China | United Kingdom | France | Russia | Türkiye | Brazil
Organization Models
UN | NATO / EU | SCO | Organization of Turkic States
2ND ASIA ANEW SECURITY FORUM
“Security and Intelligence Integration Models“
( 27-28 November 2025 | Wish More Hotel Istanbul )
“Security and Intelligence Integration Models“
( 27-28 November 2025 | Wish More Hotel Istanbul )
Asia, home to emerging global powers, has become the economic and strategic center of the world in the 21st century. Türkiye’s “Asia Anew“ initiative, announced in 2019 to forge stronger ties with this continent with which it shares deep-rooted connections, reflects an innovative and entrepreneurial foreign policy approach. Aiming to modernize and carry its Asia policy into the future, Türkiye has developed a new, holistic approach that respects the continent’s diversity. The initiative seeks to build a new energy and synergy with all of Asia based on shared values, mutual respect, equality, harmony, and the principles expressed in the UN Charter. To embrace the continent as a whole, necessary tools are being developed through collaboration between the public sector, private sector, universities, and civil society. These partnerships are envisioned within a wide perspective, including economics, civil society, health, tourism, technology, space, defence industry, education, culture, and diplomacy. In this context, the power of mobilized capacity—especially think tanks that are critical to decision-making processes—will shape Türkiye’s future engagement in the region.
As the most comprehensive regional cooperation platform on the continent, the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD), which Türkiye chaired in 2019-2020, is aligned with the goals of the Asia Anew initiative. Rather than choosing an axis, Türkiye aims to reinforce its unifying position between Asia and Europe and contribute to sustainable development. Among its objectives is the re-evaluation of the emerging opportunities and potentials resulting from the growing influence of both Türkiye and Asian countries through a win-win approach. Asia, which is not only the population hub but also increasingly important in terms of economic and cultural diversity, presents numerous new opportunities. Türkiye, considering itself a part of the continent, is making significant efforts to further develop its relations with the region and highlight the potential for collaboration.
As part of this renewed focus on Asia, Türkiye - the westernmost Asian country -is expected to strengthen its historical and cultural ties with countries across Central Asia, East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. While fostering strong interactions and civil diplomacy in economic and societal spheres, Türkiye also aims to engage in knowledge and expertise-sharing collaborations in areas such as energy, high technology, and Industry 4.0 with major global actors like China, Japan, and South Korea.
Priority Action Plans have been established for 40 core activity areas targeting 31 Asian countries. Through the Asia Anew initiative, more active and more dynamic participation is being ensured in the region’s increasingly influential international organizations, cooperation is being strengthening within existing institutional statuses, and the action plans are being progressively implemented.
Since 2004, TASAM has consistently declared the 21st century to be the "Asian Century." The Asia Anew initiative is based on four main pillars: strengthening intergovernmental relations, enhancing the trade capacity of the private sector, enhancing academic cooperation, and expanding intersocietal interaction. It emphasizes each Asian country individually while grouping the continent into four main regions: “Central Asia“ (Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan), “East Asia“ (China, South Korea, Japan, North Korea, Russia), “South Asia“ (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka), “Southeast Asia“ (Brunei, East Timor, Indonesia, Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam).
TASAM and its affiliated institutes, as the first think-tank in Türkiye to initiate comprehensive studies on Asia, have developed numerous bilateral and multilateral instruments since 2004. Despite early challenges, these efforts have gradually been realized within an increasingly favorable environment. Strategic dialogue programs based on countries and regions, economy-focused projects, International Turkish - Asian Congresses, specialized forums, events, visits, reports, publications, and academic studies have all been managed as complementary elements of a growing capacity. Now, a new instrument has been introduced: the Asia Anew Security Forum, launched in 2024 as an annual event. It holds a unique mission in discussing bilateral and multilateral partnership perspectives between Türkiye and Asian countries within the new technopolitical and security ecosystem.
Main Theme
Security and Intelligence Integration Models
Sub-Themes
Asia | Central Asia | East Asia | South Asia | Southeast Asia
Defence Industry: Land | Naval | Air | Space | Police | Gendarmerie | Intelligence
Resource Systems; Mutually Complementary Opportunities
Relations and Regional Strategies with RCEP, SCO, CICA, D-8, ASEAN, EU, USA, and New Partners
Specific Strategic Sectors and Security
Biotechnology | Robotics | Artificial Intelligence | Nanotechnology | Space | Strategic Services
As the most comprehensive regional cooperation platform on the continent, the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD), which Türkiye chaired in 2019-2020, is aligned with the goals of the Asia Anew initiative. Rather than choosing an axis, Türkiye aims to reinforce its unifying position between Asia and Europe and contribute to sustainable development. Among its objectives is the re-evaluation of the emerging opportunities and potentials resulting from the growing influence of both Türkiye and Asian countries through a win-win approach. Asia, which is not only the population hub but also increasingly important in terms of economic and cultural diversity, presents numerous new opportunities. Türkiye, considering itself a part of the continent, is making significant efforts to further develop its relations with the region and highlight the potential for collaboration.
As part of this renewed focus on Asia, Türkiye - the westernmost Asian country -is expected to strengthen its historical and cultural ties with countries across Central Asia, East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. While fostering strong interactions and civil diplomacy in economic and societal spheres, Türkiye also aims to engage in knowledge and expertise-sharing collaborations in areas such as energy, high technology, and Industry 4.0 with major global actors like China, Japan, and South Korea.
Priority Action Plans have been established for 40 core activity areas targeting 31 Asian countries. Through the Asia Anew initiative, more active and more dynamic participation is being ensured in the region’s increasingly influential international organizations, cooperation is being strengthening within existing institutional statuses, and the action plans are being progressively implemented.
Since 2004, TASAM has consistently declared the 21st century to be the "Asian Century." The Asia Anew initiative is based on four main pillars: strengthening intergovernmental relations, enhancing the trade capacity of the private sector, enhancing academic cooperation, and expanding intersocietal interaction. It emphasizes each Asian country individually while grouping the continent into four main regions: “Central Asia“ (Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan), “East Asia“ (China, South Korea, Japan, North Korea, Russia), “South Asia“ (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka), “Southeast Asia“ (Brunei, East Timor, Indonesia, Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam).
TASAM and its affiliated institutes, as the first think-tank in Türkiye to initiate comprehensive studies on Asia, have developed numerous bilateral and multilateral instruments since 2004. Despite early challenges, these efforts have gradually been realized within an increasingly favorable environment. Strategic dialogue programs based on countries and regions, economy-focused projects, International Turkish - Asian Congresses, specialized forums, events, visits, reports, publications, and academic studies have all been managed as complementary elements of a growing capacity. Now, a new instrument has been introduced: the Asia Anew Security Forum, launched in 2024 as an annual event. It holds a unique mission in discussing bilateral and multilateral partnership perspectives between Türkiye and Asian countries within the new technopolitical and security ecosystem.
Main Theme
Security and Intelligence Integration Models
Sub-Themes
Asia | Central Asia | East Asia | South Asia | Southeast Asia
Defence Industry: Land | Naval | Air | Space | Police | Gendarmerie | Intelligence
Resource Systems; Mutually Complementary Opportunities
Relations and Regional Strategies with RCEP, SCO, CICA, D-8, ASEAN, EU, USA, and New Partners
Specific Strategic Sectors and Security
Biotechnology | Robotics | Artificial Intelligence | Nanotechnology | Space | Strategic Services
4TH ISTANBUL CYBER-SECURITY FORUM
“Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Revolution and Cyber-Türkiye“
( 27-28 November 2025 | Wish More Hotel Istanbul )
“Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Revolution and Cyber-Türkiye“
( 27-28 November 2025 | Wish More Hotel Istanbul )
It is widely recognized by experts that the anticipated impacts of new and emerging technologies on the cyber domain will shape the multidimensional security landscape of the future. Technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, autonomous devices and systems, telecommunications and computing technologies, satellites and space assets, human-machine interfaces, quantum computing, and threats in cyberspace - now classified under hybrid warfare - have positioned “cyberspace“ as the fifth domain of warfare.
There is a strong thesis maintaining that the next potential global pandemic may stem from issues within “cybersecurity and the competitive governance of its ecosystem.“ This is because cybersecurity, now a multidimensional field, has become an integral and inherent part of life’s functioning. Furthermore, during the recent pandemic, the shift from a linear to a “circular economy“ has been better understood as a necessity rather than a choice. Concepts such as the “green economy“ and the “digital revolution“ are accelerating changes in business and sustainable development models. This transformation, representing the emergence of new global standards, also holds the potential to fundamentally reshape competitiveness indices. The “digital revolution“ and information economies - which redefine the meaning and value of power and ownership - are poised to become key determinants of both today and tomorrow.
In the age of rapidly advancing technologies and widespread digital transformation, the importance and complexity of cyberspace continue to grow. Within this new technopolitical cyberspace, Türkiye’s role and strategic positioning are becoming increasingly pronounced. Türkiye is developing its capabilities in areas such as artificial intelligence, deepfake technology, and cybersecurity, employing these technologies in alignment with its strategic national interests. Artificial Intelligence and Deepfake technologies are among the most significant developments in today’s cyber domain. Türkiye considers AI not only as a tool for economic growth but also for national security. While AI-based deepfake technologies present significant cybersecurity threats, they are also being used in defence and intelligence fields. Through the effective use of these technologies, Türkiye is enhancing its cybersecurity capacity and safeguarding national security.
The Cyber Industry Scale Economy and Strategic Turkish Products represent vital strategic tools for unlocking Türkiye’s economic potential in the cyber domain. With supportive policies and incentives, Türkiye aims to establish a thriving cyber ecosystem. In this regard, Türkiye’s technology and innovation-oriented strategies are crucial for increasing its international competitiveness in the cyber industry.
Moreover, Türkiye’s domestically developed and nationally owned technology products are being employed to safeguard national interests in the realms of security and defence. These products also contribute to increasing Türkiye‘s visibility on the international stage and support its foreign policy objectives. Visibility and Export Policies are of critical importance in boosting Türkiye’s effectiveness and competitiveness in cyberspace. Türkiye is developing a range of export strategies to make its cybersecurity products and services more visible in global markets. These policies help expand the country’s economic potential in cyberspace and strengthen its competitive power internationally.
In conclusion, the measures Türkiye must take and the strategies it should adopt—centered around artificial intelligence and the quantum revolution, the two new core variables of technopolitics—are of critical importance in enhancing its presence and influence in cyberspace. By protecting national interests in areas such as AI, deepfake technologies, and cybersecurity, while supporting the cyber industry, Türkiye is working to strengthen its economic growth and global competitiveness. Within this framework, Strategic Turkish Products and Export Policies play a key role in increasing Türkiye’s visibility and effectiveness in the cyber domain.
For Türkiye, reviewing the scale of its cyber space and industry, and establishing a national investment and capacity-building program for the ecosystem, must be prioritized. Since 2022, the Istanbul Cybersecurity Forum has been held annually with the aim of producing policy options for public, private, and civil society decision-makers, offering proactive economic cooperation, proposing model projects and programs, and contributing strategically to global academic and expert knowledge.
Main Theme
Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Revolution and Cyber-Türkiye
Sub-Themes
Artificial Intelligence, Deepfake, and Cybersecurity
Cyber Industry Scale Economy
Strategic Turkish Products
Visibility and Export Policies
There is a strong thesis maintaining that the next potential global pandemic may stem from issues within “cybersecurity and the competitive governance of its ecosystem.“ This is because cybersecurity, now a multidimensional field, has become an integral and inherent part of life’s functioning. Furthermore, during the recent pandemic, the shift from a linear to a “circular economy“ has been better understood as a necessity rather than a choice. Concepts such as the “green economy“ and the “digital revolution“ are accelerating changes in business and sustainable development models. This transformation, representing the emergence of new global standards, also holds the potential to fundamentally reshape competitiveness indices. The “digital revolution“ and information economies - which redefine the meaning and value of power and ownership - are poised to become key determinants of both today and tomorrow.
In the age of rapidly advancing technologies and widespread digital transformation, the importance and complexity of cyberspace continue to grow. Within this new technopolitical cyberspace, Türkiye’s role and strategic positioning are becoming increasingly pronounced. Türkiye is developing its capabilities in areas such as artificial intelligence, deepfake technology, and cybersecurity, employing these technologies in alignment with its strategic national interests. Artificial Intelligence and Deepfake technologies are among the most significant developments in today’s cyber domain. Türkiye considers AI not only as a tool for economic growth but also for national security. While AI-based deepfake technologies present significant cybersecurity threats, they are also being used in defence and intelligence fields. Through the effective use of these technologies, Türkiye is enhancing its cybersecurity capacity and safeguarding national security.
The Cyber Industry Scale Economy and Strategic Turkish Products represent vital strategic tools for unlocking Türkiye’s economic potential in the cyber domain. With supportive policies and incentives, Türkiye aims to establish a thriving cyber ecosystem. In this regard, Türkiye’s technology and innovation-oriented strategies are crucial for increasing its international competitiveness in the cyber industry.
Moreover, Türkiye’s domestically developed and nationally owned technology products are being employed to safeguard national interests in the realms of security and defence. These products also contribute to increasing Türkiye‘s visibility on the international stage and support its foreign policy objectives. Visibility and Export Policies are of critical importance in boosting Türkiye’s effectiveness and competitiveness in cyberspace. Türkiye is developing a range of export strategies to make its cybersecurity products and services more visible in global markets. These policies help expand the country’s economic potential in cyberspace and strengthen its competitive power internationally.
In conclusion, the measures Türkiye must take and the strategies it should adopt—centered around artificial intelligence and the quantum revolution, the two new core variables of technopolitics—are of critical importance in enhancing its presence and influence in cyberspace. By protecting national interests in areas such as AI, deepfake technologies, and cybersecurity, while supporting the cyber industry, Türkiye is working to strengthen its economic growth and global competitiveness. Within this framework, Strategic Turkish Products and Export Policies play a key role in increasing Türkiye’s visibility and effectiveness in the cyber domain.
For Türkiye, reviewing the scale of its cyber space and industry, and establishing a national investment and capacity-building program for the ecosystem, must be prioritized. Since 2022, the Istanbul Cybersecurity Forum has been held annually with the aim of producing policy options for public, private, and civil society decision-makers, offering proactive economic cooperation, proposing model projects and programs, and contributing strategically to global academic and expert knowledge.
Main Theme
Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Revolution and Cyber-Türkiye
Sub-Themes
Artificial Intelligence, Deepfake, and Cybersecurity
Cyber Industry Scale Economy
Strategic Turkish Products
Visibility and Export Policies
7TH MARINE AND MARITIME SECURITY FORUM
“Turkish Naval Power from Seas to Oceans“
( 27-28 November 2025 | Wish More Hotel Istanbul )
“Turkish Naval Power from Seas to Oceans“
( 27-28 November 2025 | Wish More Hotel Istanbul )
Humanity lives on the lithosphere - land masses that rise and fall within the hydrosphere, which covers 72% of Earth’s surface. These land masses, which constitute humanity’s natural habitat, make up a relatively small part of the planet. In essence, every landmass can be considered an “island,“ varying in size and characteristics. Some host multiple states and nations (continental islands), while others are home to only one country or form part of island chains. Some islands are small maritime towns or rural villages; others are uninhabitable due to their morphology. Beyond these, there are numerous islets, reefs, shallows, and rocks, often serving as economic activity zones or sources of international maritime disputes. In this context, Earth is increasingly conceptualized as a “Continental Islands Ocean.“
Today, approximately 45% of humanity lives within 150 km of coastlines, constantly exposed to maritime influences. The majority of states’ economic activities occur within this zone. As of the early 21st century, over 680 million people - about 12% of the global population - live in areas no more than 10 meters above sea level. This number is projected to reach nearly one billion by 2050, highlighting a growing global dependency on the seas. Maritime trade is also essential: at least 80% of global merchandise is transported by sea - an even higher percentage in developed countries. About half of developed nations’ populations rely on marine resources for protein, and 80% of global tourism occurs in coastal regions.
These statistics underscore the importance of seas as a vast system of highways for people, goods, capital, knowledge, and culture. No landmass on Earth is untouched by maritime security, economic, legal, and sociocultural Dynamics - including landlocked countries, which remain connected through climate, ecosystems, and trade. This ongoing interaction has, for centuries, driven civilizations toward the sea.
Within this global maritime framework, Türkiye occupies a geographically strategic position as a country composed of two peninsulas. Located within the “Seven Seas,“ Türkiye borders three seas and controls the Turkish Straits, a critical chokepoint in global maritime trade. With 8,483 km of coastline (3% of the world’s total), including the Black Sea, Marmara, Aegean, and Mediterranean, Türkiye possesses roughly 180 port facilities and 28 major coastal or port cities, home to around 60% of its population.
Most of Türkiye’s labor force is based in coastal areas, which also generate approximately 60% of the country’s GDP. Furthermore, around 95% of industrial production and foreign trade (imports/exports) is carried out via maritime routes.
The vast majority of Türkiye’s arable land and tourism infrastructure - often called the “Smokeless Industry“ - is located along or near the coast. These figures collectively demonstrate Türkiye’s dependency on the seas, not just for political, military, and economic activity, but also for disaster response and humanitarian assistance.
The strategic significance of Türkiye’s maritime jurisdictions and potential energy resources has become a central pillar of the country’s geopolitical and energy strategies. Türkiye maintains expansive maritime jurisdictions in the Mediterranean, Black Sea, and Aegean. Discoveries of energy reserves - particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean - have reinforced Türkiye’s strategic standing but have also intensified disputes over maritime borders.
In addition to the Eastern Mediterranean, energy exploration in the Black Sea and Aegean further supports Türkiye’s energy security and contributes to its regional and international influence. Sustainable management of these resources will also support Türkiye’s environmental and economic development goals.
Maritime energy exploration has reshaped Türkiye’s energy security policies, prompting a shift toward domestic resource development to reduce dependency on imports. Efficient use of maritime resources will be key to achieving both energy security and long-term economic development.
Türkiye’s access to vital Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) and maritime chokepoints reinforces its pivotal role in sustaining global maritime trade. However, underutilization of the country’s maritime economy continues to be a strategic challenge. To realize its maritime awakening, Türkiye must commit to a long-term, resolute national agenda for becoming a true maritime nation.
Efforts such as this forum can rehabilitate the “sea blindness“ observed in international relations literature by fostering spatial maritime awareness and public engagement. This will nurture the knowledge base required by both administrative institutions and private capital, contributing to the development of maritime studies in Türkiye.
The Marine and Maritime Security Forum centers on Modern Maritime Studies, encompassing: navies, merchant fleets, shipping companies, ports and port management, shipyards and naval engineering disciplines, fishing, seabed mining (including metallurgy, geology, oceanography, hydrography, and seismology), marine tourism, marinas and their management, maritime law, naval education institutions and programs, marine environmentalism, and support sectors (search and rescue, piloting, navigation and communication, vessel traffic services, maritime meteorology, etc.). It also includes cultural and sporting dimensions like maritime literature, naval history, and water sports.
The forum aims to generate public awareness of maritime power, both in Türkiye and among international partners, by addressing changing maritime dynamics through a broad historical vision and multi-sectoral collaboration with national/international civil and military maritime institutions.
Issues such as the Montreux Convention, disputes in the Aegean, maritime jurisdiction conflicts in the “Blue Homeland,“ maritime crimes, mass migration, energy transport security, and the Cyprus issue - all heavily tied to the sea - fall within the domain of maritime geopolitics. Advancing academic awareness of maritime geopolitics and engaging in discussions that define goals, identify needs, and develop the capabilities necessary to convert maritime potential into national prosperity is a strategic imperative for Türkiye.
The 21st century is quickly becoming the Century of Seas and Oceans. With crises, rivalries, alliances, and cooperation increasingly centered on the narrow, internal, and marginal seas of the Eurasian Continental Island, Türkiye’s pursuit of a strong, respected international position is closely tied to its access to Blue Civilization. Since 2019, the Marine and Maritime Security Forum has been held annually to meet these growing needs.
Main Theme
Turkish Naval Power from Seas to Oceans
Sub-Themes
New Perspectives and Regional Studies in Maritime Geopolitics
Mediterranean, Aegean, Black Sea, Oceans, and the Poles
Contemporary Threats and Maritime Crimes in Naval Security
Current Trends in the Use of Turkish Naval Diplomacy
Current Concepts in Maritime Capacity Building
Maritime Power | Naval Power | Fleet Power
New Opportunities in Maritime Geoeconomics and Türkiye
- Administrative and Institutional Structure of Turkish Maritime Affairs
- Vision and Future of Türkiye’s Maritime Ecosystem
- New Trends in the Blue Economy
- Vision and Future of Turkish Maritime Trade
- Vision and Future of Turkish Maritime Transport
- Vision and Future of Turkish Maritime Tourism
- Türkiye’s Shipbuilding Capabilities and Vision of the Shipyard Sector
- Turkish Ports: Strategies for Hinterland, Gateway, and Foreland Development
Ocean Policies
Environmental Security in Maritime Studies
Digitalization Era and Emerging Threats in Global Maritime
Use of Seas in Disaster Response and Maritime Bridge Strategies
Maritime Geoculture
Energy Potential of the Seas and Its Sustainable Use
Today, approximately 45% of humanity lives within 150 km of coastlines, constantly exposed to maritime influences. The majority of states’ economic activities occur within this zone. As of the early 21st century, over 680 million people - about 12% of the global population - live in areas no more than 10 meters above sea level. This number is projected to reach nearly one billion by 2050, highlighting a growing global dependency on the seas. Maritime trade is also essential: at least 80% of global merchandise is transported by sea - an even higher percentage in developed countries. About half of developed nations’ populations rely on marine resources for protein, and 80% of global tourism occurs in coastal regions.
These statistics underscore the importance of seas as a vast system of highways for people, goods, capital, knowledge, and culture. No landmass on Earth is untouched by maritime security, economic, legal, and sociocultural Dynamics - including landlocked countries, which remain connected through climate, ecosystems, and trade. This ongoing interaction has, for centuries, driven civilizations toward the sea.
Within this global maritime framework, Türkiye occupies a geographically strategic position as a country composed of two peninsulas. Located within the “Seven Seas,“ Türkiye borders three seas and controls the Turkish Straits, a critical chokepoint in global maritime trade. With 8,483 km of coastline (3% of the world’s total), including the Black Sea, Marmara, Aegean, and Mediterranean, Türkiye possesses roughly 180 port facilities and 28 major coastal or port cities, home to around 60% of its population.
Most of Türkiye’s labor force is based in coastal areas, which also generate approximately 60% of the country’s GDP. Furthermore, around 95% of industrial production and foreign trade (imports/exports) is carried out via maritime routes.
The vast majority of Türkiye’s arable land and tourism infrastructure - often called the “Smokeless Industry“ - is located along or near the coast. These figures collectively demonstrate Türkiye’s dependency on the seas, not just for political, military, and economic activity, but also for disaster response and humanitarian assistance.
The strategic significance of Türkiye’s maritime jurisdictions and potential energy resources has become a central pillar of the country’s geopolitical and energy strategies. Türkiye maintains expansive maritime jurisdictions in the Mediterranean, Black Sea, and Aegean. Discoveries of energy reserves - particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean - have reinforced Türkiye’s strategic standing but have also intensified disputes over maritime borders.
In addition to the Eastern Mediterranean, energy exploration in the Black Sea and Aegean further supports Türkiye’s energy security and contributes to its regional and international influence. Sustainable management of these resources will also support Türkiye’s environmental and economic development goals.
Maritime energy exploration has reshaped Türkiye’s energy security policies, prompting a shift toward domestic resource development to reduce dependency on imports. Efficient use of maritime resources will be key to achieving both energy security and long-term economic development.
Türkiye’s access to vital Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) and maritime chokepoints reinforces its pivotal role in sustaining global maritime trade. However, underutilization of the country’s maritime economy continues to be a strategic challenge. To realize its maritime awakening, Türkiye must commit to a long-term, resolute national agenda for becoming a true maritime nation.
Efforts such as this forum can rehabilitate the “sea blindness“ observed in international relations literature by fostering spatial maritime awareness and public engagement. This will nurture the knowledge base required by both administrative institutions and private capital, contributing to the development of maritime studies in Türkiye.
The Marine and Maritime Security Forum centers on Modern Maritime Studies, encompassing: navies, merchant fleets, shipping companies, ports and port management, shipyards and naval engineering disciplines, fishing, seabed mining (including metallurgy, geology, oceanography, hydrography, and seismology), marine tourism, marinas and their management, maritime law, naval education institutions and programs, marine environmentalism, and support sectors (search and rescue, piloting, navigation and communication, vessel traffic services, maritime meteorology, etc.). It also includes cultural and sporting dimensions like maritime literature, naval history, and water sports.
The forum aims to generate public awareness of maritime power, both in Türkiye and among international partners, by addressing changing maritime dynamics through a broad historical vision and multi-sectoral collaboration with national/international civil and military maritime institutions.
Issues such as the Montreux Convention, disputes in the Aegean, maritime jurisdiction conflicts in the “Blue Homeland,“ maritime crimes, mass migration, energy transport security, and the Cyprus issue - all heavily tied to the sea - fall within the domain of maritime geopolitics. Advancing academic awareness of maritime geopolitics and engaging in discussions that define goals, identify needs, and develop the capabilities necessary to convert maritime potential into national prosperity is a strategic imperative for Türkiye.
The 21st century is quickly becoming the Century of Seas and Oceans. With crises, rivalries, alliances, and cooperation increasingly centered on the narrow, internal, and marginal seas of the Eurasian Continental Island, Türkiye’s pursuit of a strong, respected international position is closely tied to its access to Blue Civilization. Since 2019, the Marine and Maritime Security Forum has been held annually to meet these growing needs.
Main Theme
Turkish Naval Power from Seas to Oceans
Sub-Themes
New Perspectives and Regional Studies in Maritime Geopolitics
Mediterranean, Aegean, Black Sea, Oceans, and the Poles
Contemporary Threats and Maritime Crimes in Naval Security
Current Trends in the Use of Turkish Naval Diplomacy
Current Concepts in Maritime Capacity Building
Maritime Power | Naval Power | Fleet Power
New Opportunities in Maritime Geoeconomics and Türkiye
- Administrative and Institutional Structure of Turkish Maritime Affairs
- Vision and Future of Türkiye’s Maritime Ecosystem
- New Trends in the Blue Economy
- Vision and Future of Turkish Maritime Trade
- Vision and Future of Turkish Maritime Transport
- Vision and Future of Turkish Maritime Tourism
- Türkiye’s Shipbuilding Capabilities and Vision of the Shipyard Sector
- Turkish Ports: Strategies for Hinterland, Gateway, and Foreland Development
Ocean Policies
Environmental Security in Maritime Studies
Digitalization Era and Emerging Threats in Global Maritime
Use of Seas in Disaster Response and Maritime Bridge Strategies
Maritime Geoculture
Energy Potential of the Seas and Its Sustainable Use
8TH TÜRKİYE- AFRICA DEFENCE SECURITY AND AEROSPACE FORUM
“African Security Architecture and Türkiye“
( 27-28 November 2025 | Wish More Hotel Istanbul )
Concerns must be taken into account that comprehensive international military strategies may, in some cases, contribute to regional security crises in Africa. Due to both broad industrial challenges and narrower defence industry limitations, African states often struggle to adequately build their military capacities—creating an opening for overly interventionist and neo-colonial tendencies. There is also a widely held view that the use of “terror“ as a narrative will likely continue to be employed for years as a tool of pressure in the competition over the continent’s resources. Policies emphasizing “structural adjustment“ as a response to the development and security challenges—often at the root of the continent’s migration issues—may in fact worsen political and economic crises. Socioeconomic transformation is inseparable not only from security but also from science, technology, and innovation.
Türkiye holds strong potential to contribute to Africa’s “Agenda 2063“ vision through strategic, capacity-building projects in the fields of defence, security, IT, and space research. Türkiye supports African states - many of which face serious challenges such as terrorism, civil war, coups, transnational crime, and the impacts of climate change - through cooperation in defence and security. In support of peace and stability on the continent, Türkiye has joined the UN-led “Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Missions“ in Mali and the Central African Republic. In addition, Turkish military personnel are stationed at TÜRKSOM, Türkiye’s largest overseas base in Somalia. Türkiye has also signed defence and military cooperation agreements with nearly half of the African continent’s countries.
As the Turkish defence industry has rapidly evolved and become more export-oriented, African nations facing security issues have shown increasing interest in Turkish defence products. In fact, within a single year, Turkish defence exports to the continent grew nearly fourfold. Countries such as Burkina Faso, Algeria, Chad, Morocco, Ghana, Kenya, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Somalia, Rwanda, and Uganda have imported various Turkish weapons, military vehicles, and equipment.
At this point, Türkiye has transitioned from being solely a humanitarian actor in Africa to one with growing political and military engagement. The rapid technological advances in the Turkish defence industry have played a significant role in this transformation.
The continent’s general security environment and the political, military, and socioeconomic structures of African states create favorable conditions for Turkish defence exports. However, to shape a long-term future in Africa, Türkiye must closely monitor and understand the continent’s security dynamics in detail.
Bringing together representatives from the defence, security, and space sectors of Türkiye and African nations, the Türkiye - Africa Defence Security and Aerospace Forum, held annually since 2018, is aligned with the institutional framework of the globally recognized Istanbul Security Conference. The forum will continue to strengthen strategic cooperation and mutual capacity building, while responding to inventory and ecosystem needs.
Main Theme
African Security Architecture and Türkiye
Sub-Themes
Africa 2063 Security, Defence and Space Vision: Partnership Perspectives
African Union’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy
Africa’s Maritime Security and Türkiye
Turkish Military Presence and New Horizons in Somalia, Djibouti, Libya, Sudan, Central African Republic, and Mali
Türkiye holds strong potential to contribute to Africa’s “Agenda 2063“ vision through strategic, capacity-building projects in the fields of defence, security, IT, and space research. Türkiye supports African states - many of which face serious challenges such as terrorism, civil war, coups, transnational crime, and the impacts of climate change - through cooperation in defence and security. In support of peace and stability on the continent, Türkiye has joined the UN-led “Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Missions“ in Mali and the Central African Republic. In addition, Turkish military personnel are stationed at TÜRKSOM, Türkiye’s largest overseas base in Somalia. Türkiye has also signed defence and military cooperation agreements with nearly half of the African continent’s countries.
As the Turkish defence industry has rapidly evolved and become more export-oriented, African nations facing security issues have shown increasing interest in Turkish defence products. In fact, within a single year, Turkish defence exports to the continent grew nearly fourfold. Countries such as Burkina Faso, Algeria, Chad, Morocco, Ghana, Kenya, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Somalia, Rwanda, and Uganda have imported various Turkish weapons, military vehicles, and equipment.
At this point, Türkiye has transitioned from being solely a humanitarian actor in Africa to one with growing political and military engagement. The rapid technological advances in the Turkish defence industry have played a significant role in this transformation.
The continent’s general security environment and the political, military, and socioeconomic structures of African states create favorable conditions for Turkish defence exports. However, to shape a long-term future in Africa, Türkiye must closely monitor and understand the continent’s security dynamics in detail.
Bringing together representatives from the defence, security, and space sectors of Türkiye and African nations, the Türkiye - Africa Defence Security and Aerospace Forum, held annually since 2018, is aligned with the institutional framework of the globally recognized Istanbul Security Conference. The forum will continue to strengthen strategic cooperation and mutual capacity building, while responding to inventory and ecosystem needs.
Main Theme
African Security Architecture and Türkiye
Sub-Themes
Africa 2063 Security, Defence and Space Vision: Partnership Perspectives
African Union’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy
Africa’s Maritime Security and Türkiye
Turkish Military Presence and New Horizons in Somalia, Djibouti, Libya, Sudan, Central African Republic, and Mali
4th Türkiye - Africa Partnership Summit: Perspectives on Security Cooperation
Defence Industry: Land | Naval | Air | Space | Police | Gendarmerie | Intelligence | Strategic Sectors
9TH TÜRKİYE - GULF DEFENCE AND SECURITY FORUM
“Trade Corridors’ Security and Türkiye“
( 27-28 November 2025 | Wish More Hotel Istanbul )
“Trade Corridors’ Security and Türkiye“
( 27-28 November 2025 | Wish More Hotel Istanbul )
Despite the strong historical and cultural background, it is no longer an option but an obligation for Türkiye - Middle East, or more narrowly, Türkiye - Gulf Countries relations, in which strategic dialogue is still developing, to transform from a fragile axis to a cooperation axis that will adapt to new balances, new roles, and new alliances. With vision and foresight, history and the spirit of the times have long reminded us of this necessity, which has been tested in various crises.
Beyond the brotherhood of religion, language, history, and geography, “strategic mutual interdependence and trust building“ is the fundamental mental threshold in Türkiye - Gulf (Arab) Countries relations. To prevent national priorities and differences between countries from turning into regional weakness and security gaps, they must be managed correctly with a focus on shared risks and opportunities.
The Saudi Arabia - Iran rivalry is significant within the geopolitical and geostrategic context of the Gulf. In this rivalry, which has historical roots, the Shia - Sunni divide on a regional and sectarian axis is a critical issue. The Arab Spring, which began in December 2010, further strengthened Iran in the Middle East and increased sectarian tension between Shia and Sunni for the Gulf countries. Particularly the ongoing civil wars in Yemen and Sudan have further deepened the geopolitical and geoeconomic issues within the Gulf countries.
Since the invasion of Iraq, Iran’s Shia-oriented expansionist and encircling policies’ impact on Baghdad, Damascus, Beirut, and Sana’a has increased the perception of national security threats in the Gulf countries, especially in Saudi Arabia and the broader Arab world. Furthermore, the control of Yemen’s capital Sana’a and the northern regions of the country by the Shia Houthis has led to the emergence of a regional “alliance belt“ in the Middle East. The newly proposed model titled the Ideo-Pragmatic Model (IPM) is presented as the best model to explain the security and foreign policies of ideologically driven authoritarian states like Iran. Depending on the nature of the threat to the survival of the state, the country chooses either pragmatic or ideological approaches. The same model can also be used to analyze the security and foreign policy approaches of countries such as Cuba, North Korea, and Venezuela.
New trade corridors created under the leadership of different major powers are changing all the dynamics of regional and global security. The Gulf Countries, with their multi-dimensional strategic potential, are the focal point of this competition, and their preferences and alliances are constantly shifting. In this atmosphere, which aggravates countless turbulences, particularly the situation in Palestine, Türkiye’s role as a balancing power will confirm these dynamics.
Bringing together representatives from the defence, security, and space sectors and institutions of Türkiye and the Gulf Countries, and held annually since 2017, the Türkiye - Gulf Defence and Security Forum will be organized in conjunction with the Istanbul Security Conference, which has institutionalized as a global brand. The forum will continue by strengthening its contribution to strategic cooperation and mutual capacity building and meeting inventory/ecosystem needs.
Main Theme
Trade Corridors’ Security and Türkiye
Sub-Themes
Safe Fertile Crescent and Balance Partnership
Impact of the New Syria on Regional and Global Security Balances
New Threats and Cooperation Opportunities in the Ecosystem
Cooperation in the Security and Defence Ecosystem of the Future
Defence Industry: Land | Sea | Air | Space | Police | Gendarmerie | Intelligence | Strategic Sectors
Beyond the brotherhood of religion, language, history, and geography, “strategic mutual interdependence and trust building“ is the fundamental mental threshold in Türkiye - Gulf (Arab) Countries relations. To prevent national priorities and differences between countries from turning into regional weakness and security gaps, they must be managed correctly with a focus on shared risks and opportunities.
The Saudi Arabia - Iran rivalry is significant within the geopolitical and geostrategic context of the Gulf. In this rivalry, which has historical roots, the Shia - Sunni divide on a regional and sectarian axis is a critical issue. The Arab Spring, which began in December 2010, further strengthened Iran in the Middle East and increased sectarian tension between Shia and Sunni for the Gulf countries. Particularly the ongoing civil wars in Yemen and Sudan have further deepened the geopolitical and geoeconomic issues within the Gulf countries.
Since the invasion of Iraq, Iran’s Shia-oriented expansionist and encircling policies’ impact on Baghdad, Damascus, Beirut, and Sana’a has increased the perception of national security threats in the Gulf countries, especially in Saudi Arabia and the broader Arab world. Furthermore, the control of Yemen’s capital Sana’a and the northern regions of the country by the Shia Houthis has led to the emergence of a regional “alliance belt“ in the Middle East. The newly proposed model titled the Ideo-Pragmatic Model (IPM) is presented as the best model to explain the security and foreign policies of ideologically driven authoritarian states like Iran. Depending on the nature of the threat to the survival of the state, the country chooses either pragmatic or ideological approaches. The same model can also be used to analyze the security and foreign policy approaches of countries such as Cuba, North Korea, and Venezuela.
New trade corridors created under the leadership of different major powers are changing all the dynamics of regional and global security. The Gulf Countries, with their multi-dimensional strategic potential, are the focal point of this competition, and their preferences and alliances are constantly shifting. In this atmosphere, which aggravates countless turbulences, particularly the situation in Palestine, Türkiye’s role as a balancing power will confirm these dynamics.
Bringing together representatives from the defence, security, and space sectors and institutions of Türkiye and the Gulf Countries, and held annually since 2017, the Türkiye - Gulf Defence and Security Forum will be organized in conjunction with the Istanbul Security Conference, which has institutionalized as a global brand. The forum will continue by strengthening its contribution to strategic cooperation and mutual capacity building and meeting inventory/ecosystem needs.
Main Theme
Trade Corridors’ Security and Türkiye
Sub-Themes
Safe Fertile Crescent and Balance Partnership
Impact of the New Syria on Regional and Global Security Balances
New Threats and Cooperation Opportunities in the Ecosystem
Cooperation in the Security and Defence Ecosystem of the Future
Defence Industry: Land | Sea | Air | Space | Police | Gendarmerie | Intelligence | Strategic Sectors
NDSI
The National Defence and Security Institute (NDSI) was established ten years ago under the umbrella of TASAM to raise public awareness in the field of defence industry both in Türkiye and in partner countries, to manage the changing security parameters effectively, to elevate security studies to new dimensions required by global developments, to establish security-themed networks between Türkiye and other countries, and to carry out collaborations through relevant studies and activities.
The Institute continues its activities with the aim of making significant contributions to the establishment of international collaborations in the field of security and defence, development of defence industry infrastructure, reduction of foreign dependencies and costs, achieving economies of scale, sharing of risks and gaining competitive advantage, entering target markets, accessing new technologies, creating managerial synergy, and enhancing the level of technological expertise and competence.
Organizing national and international events, establishing and maintaining international and regional networks, conducting vision training and technical tours, and performing strategic research, publications, and reports, the High Advisory Board of the National Defence and Security Institute consists of the following members:
Vahit ERDEM, Founder Undersecretary of Undersecretariat of Defence Industry (UDI)
Murad BAYAR, F. Undersecretary of UDI
Prof. Dr. Hasan CANPOLAT, F. Governor
Aydin Nezih DOGAN, Governor
M. Celalettin LEKESİZ, Governor, F. Director General of Security
Amb. (R) Prof. Dr. Ali Engin OBA, Advisor of TASAM Chairman, Member of Cag University
Amb. Tahsin BURCUOGLU, First Deputy Secretery-General of BSEC, F. Secretary of National Security Council
Amb. Prof. Cagri ERHAN, Chief Advisor to the Turkish President, Mem. of the Sec. and For. Policy Board. of the Presidency
Prof. Brig. (R) Fahri ERENEL, F. Head of Current Goods & Services Procurement Dept. in Ministry of National Defence
Assoc. Prof. Brig. (R) Mehmet AKCAY, F. Head of Dept. of Technical Services in Ministry of National Defence
Kadir Nail KURT, CEO of FNSS Defence Systems Co.
Ahmet Mithat ERTUĞ, Chairman of OSSA Defence and Aviation Cluster
Orhan AYDIN, Chairman of the Board, OSTIM OIZ
The Institute continues its activities with the aim of making significant contributions to the establishment of international collaborations in the field of security and defence, development of defence industry infrastructure, reduction of foreign dependencies and costs, achieving economies of scale, sharing of risks and gaining competitive advantage, entering target markets, accessing new technologies, creating managerial synergy, and enhancing the level of technological expertise and competence.
Organizing national and international events, establishing and maintaining international and regional networks, conducting vision training and technical tours, and performing strategic research, publications, and reports, the High Advisory Board of the National Defence and Security Institute consists of the following members:
Vahit ERDEM, Founder Undersecretary of Undersecretariat of Defence Industry (UDI)
Murad BAYAR, F. Undersecretary of UDI
Prof. Dr. Hasan CANPOLAT, F. Governor
Aydin Nezih DOGAN, Governor
M. Celalettin LEKESİZ, Governor, F. Director General of Security
Amb. (R) Prof. Dr. Ali Engin OBA, Advisor of TASAM Chairman, Member of Cag University
Amb. Tahsin BURCUOGLU, First Deputy Secretery-General of BSEC, F. Secretary of National Security Council
Amb. Prof. Cagri ERHAN, Chief Advisor to the Turkish President, Mem. of the Sec. and For. Policy Board. of the Presidency
Prof. Brig. (R) Fahri ERENEL, F. Head of Current Goods & Services Procurement Dept. in Ministry of National Defence
Assoc. Prof. Brig. (R) Mehmet AKCAY, F. Head of Dept. of Technical Services in Ministry of National Defence
Kadir Nail KURT, CEO of FNSS Defence Systems Co.
Ahmet Mithat ERTUĞ, Chairman of OSSA Defence and Aviation Cluster
Orhan AYDIN, Chairman of the Board, OSTIM OIZ
