Defence Turkey: We wish you the best in your new position as Undersecretary. Along with your appointment, the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries (SSM) is opening a new chapter. Based on the impressions you have gained since starting your position, how would you characterize the Turkish defence industry?

Since my appointment, part of my time has been spent getting to know the industry, and part of it has been spent understanding how things work, including reviewing project figures, direct purchases and development activities.  During all of this, one must constantly be posing questions, and as a result, I have been keeping pretty busy.  As you ask questions and drill into topics, things consume your time and not all topics get your attention.  This is what I am currently faced with, but we are making progress.  By making personal visits to companies and having detailed information exchange sessions, it has been possible to form an understanding of the defence industry.  So far, I have been able to get a picture based on my prior knowledge, in-house presentations, various meetings and courtesy calls I have received.  I can’t say that it is much different than from what I have been expecting.  In the past and now, I believe that significant work must be carried out with respect to setting priorities and ranking areas of expertise.