The way to reduce dependence on foreign countries in critical technologies is also to reduce dependence on critical knowledge and skills. Therefore, we consider the competency gap to be at least as critical a national security issue as the technology gap.

Axar.az reports, citing Anadolu, that Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz made the remarks.

"Last year, our defense industry exports exceeded $10 billion. We are currently the world's 11th-largest defense exporter. Export growth is progressing very well this year, and we hope to set another export record. Our goal is to place Turkiye among the world's top 10 defense exporters as soon as possible," Yilmaz said.