The defense industry is one of the most critical sectors in terms of technological advancement and national security. In this field, IDEF (International Defence Industry Fair) stands out as one of Turkey’s largest and most prestigious trade exhibitions, bringing together domestic and international stakeholders to shape the future of the industry. So, what exactly is IDEF, how is it organized, and how long has it been running?
What is IDEF?
IDEF stands for “International Defence Industry Fair.” Held in Turkey, this event is an international meeting point where the most up-to-date defense products, systems, and technologies are showcased. It features participation from companies active in various sectors such as land, air, naval, and space defense systems, as well as electronic warfare, unmanned systems, and logistics.
IDEF is not just a venue for displaying products; it also serves as a hub where intergovernmental defense cooperation agreements, technology transfer discussions, and strategic partnerships are established. The fair is organized under the management of the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation (TAFF), hosted by the Ministry of National Defense, and executed by an organizing company designated by TAFF.
How is IDEF Organized?
IDEF is a large-scale exhibition held biennially, requiring long-term and detailed planning. The key stages of the organization process include:
- Planning and Scheduling: The dates are usually set two years in advance. During this stage, the scope, theme, and target countries of the event are determined.
- Participant Applications: Applications are collected from domestic and international defense companies, and booth allocations are planned.
- Logistics and Security: High-level security protocols are implemented. Diplomatic arrangements are made to host official and military delegations from participating countries.
- Event Programming: Panels, product launches, live demonstrations, and B2B meetings are scheduled.
The fair is typically held in large venues like the Istanbul Expo Center (IFM). Attendees include defense ministries, military representatives, academics, investors, and technology developers.
Since When Has IDEF Been Held?
The first IDEF fair was held in 1993 in Ankara. Since then, the event has been organized every two years. Over time, it was relocated to Istanbul and gained significant recognition on the international stage.
The evolution of IDEF over the years can be summarized as follows:
- 1993 – The inaugural fair was held in Ankara. Participation was limited, but it garnered great interest.
- 2000s – Participation from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas increased significantly. The fair evolved into a key platform for defense diplomacy and international agreements.
- Post-2020 – The event embraced a modern exhibition concept, featuring digital integration, AR/VR technologies, and unmanned systems.
Today, IDEF ranks among the top five defense exhibitions in the world, continuing to serve as a prominent showcase for Turkey’s defense industry.
