Globally, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are no longer just commercial innovations; they have become the most critical strategic elements determining the geopolitical and economic sovereignty of nations. Türkiye sits at the very heart of this global transformation, leveraging its geographical and strategic position as a bridge between East and West. By transferring its indigenous and national technology achievements in the defense industry into civil sectors and digital infrastructure, the country is rapidly building its own AI ecosystem. Türkiye’s vision in this field reflects a firm determination not just to consume technology, but to become a global rule-maker and technology exporter.
Digital Sovereignty and National Strategy
Türkiye has elevated its digital transformation journey to a new dimension with the 2026–2030 Artificial Intelligence Action Plan. This plan is built upon four main pillars: to discover, to utilize, to produce, and to govern. The country’s primary goal is to achieve “algorithmic sovereignty” by reducing foreign dependency. Accordingly, a massive investment volume is being targeted for data centers, cloud computing, and AI infrastructure.
One of Türkiye’s greatest advantages is its operational AI expertise, proven through its success in the defense industry—particularly in UAV/UCAV (Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle) technologies. The local large language model “Bilge,” developed under the leadership of TÜBİTAK (The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye), along with the ongoing work of institutions like HAVELSAN and BAYKAR, serve as concrete examples of transferring this military capability to the civilian ecosystem. Furthermore, TÜBİTAK’s “AI Ecosystem Calls” bridge academia and industry, providing significant incentives for AI projects in areas such as smart manufacturing, financial technologies, agriculture, and climate change.
A “Third Way” globally and International Partnerships
Türkiye aims to offer a reliable “third way” for countries that do not want to be trapped between the competing ecosystems of Washington and Beijing in the global AI race. Multidimensional diplomacy is being conducted on the international partnerships front of this vision:
Scientific Bridges with Europe and Japan: Türkiye plays an active role within the framework of CONCERT Japan, which includes 10 European countries like Germany and France, as well as Japan. Through this partnership, joint R&D studies are carried out on AI-supported robotic systems and autonomous technologies.
The Organization of Turkic States and the Joint Language Model: One of the most visionary steps of the action plan is the “Grand Turkic Language Model” project, planned to be developed jointly with the Organization of Turkic States. This initiative aims to create a shared digital memory and cognitive infrastructure across a geopolitical landscape stretching from the Balkans to Central Asia.
Global Investments and Entrepreneurship Hubs: Massive technology hubs like the planned Terminal İstanbul aim to bring global AI entrepreneurs and international venture capital funds together with Türkiye’s local talent pool. Meanwhile, the HIT-30 High Technology Investment Program strategically supports the investments of global tech giants within Türkiye.
Conclusion
With its dynamic and young population, advanced e-government infrastructure, and engineering prowess derived from the defense sector, Türkiye is determined to seize the AI era. The indigenous technologies being developed, combined with strategic international partnerships, are driving Türkiye forward with firm steps toward becoming an indispensable AI hub in Eurasia. In a future world where sovereignty is built upon data, Türkiye is positioning itself not just as a player, but as a playmaker.