Three top executives from critical defence companies in Turkey detained amid allegations of spying for foreign powers; fourth suspect remains at large.

Turkish authorities have arrested three executives from prominent defence companies on suspicion of espionage, raising concerns about security within the country’s military-industrial sector. The Istanbul public prosecutor’s office confirmed that the operation is ongoing, with one additional suspect currently abroad.

Arrests Linked to Espionage in Turkish Defence Sector

According to prosecutors, an operation was conducted on November 25, 2025, targeting four individuals implicated in a conspiracy to pass sensitive information to foreign powers. Three suspects were apprehended, while the fourth remains the subject of an arrest warrant.

The suspects hold executive positions in critical defence companies operating in Turkey and are accused of attempting to provide biographical data about employees to foreign entities.

Initial reports by AFP suggested that the accused were linked to the intelligence services of the United Arab Emirates, although the prosecutor’s office later revised the statement, removing any specific reference to the UAE.

Significance for Turkey’s Defence Industry

Turkey’s defence sector has seen substantial growth in recent years, particularly in military drone exports and other advanced technologies. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reported that Turkish defence exports rose 29 percent in 2024, totaling $7.15 billion, driven largely by drones and other high-tech military systems.

The arrests underscore the sensitivity of Turkey’s defence operations and the risks of foreign espionage amid a rapidly expanding defence export market. Analysts suggest that breaches of security at the executive level could have implications for both national security and international contracts.

Ongoing Investigation

The Istanbul prosecutor’s office emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, with authorities continuing to track the fourth suspect. Turkish officials have not released further details about the identities of the suspects or the exact nature of the information allegedly shared.

This operation comes at a time of heightened vigilance in the Turkish defence sector, as global interest in military technology, including unmanned aerial systems, continues to grow.