Ankara Space and Aviation Specialized Organized Industrial Zone (HAB) is Transforming the Defense and Aviation Ecosystem into a “Valley”

The Ankara Space and Aviation Specialized Organized Industrial Zone (HAB) operates with a “valley” approach to strengthen Turkey’s defense, space, and aviation ecosystem. HAB Director Mehmet Nihat Yapıcı emphasized that institutions and companies in the zone play a role in producing critical platforms such as KAAN, HÜRJET, HÜRKUŞ, GÖKBEY, ANKA-3, ATAK, ALTAY Tank, and communication satellite systems.

Established in 2015 through the collaboration of the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB), Ankara Governorship, and Ankara Chamber of Industry, HAB initially covered 7,200 hectares. With the participation of TUSAŞ and STM, the area expanded to 9.5 million square meters. HAB hosts major players like HAVELSAN, ROKETSAN, BMC, and ASELSAN Net, as well as SMEs, with the current 130 companies expected to increase to 360 in the near future. Employment, currently at 21,500, is planned to reach 70,000.

Companies joining HAB are selected according to SSB criteria. Yapıcı stated that the label “Produced in HAB” adds value to companies and highlighted the region’s logistical, educational, and sustainable growth opportunities. While R&D efforts are supported through the Technology Development Zone, the goal is to translate these efforts into production within the OSB area. HAB aims to significantly increase production by providing a synergistic environment through university-private sector collaboration.

HAB also stands out for its employment chain extending from education to production. Vocational high schools and colleges to be established will allow students to intern and join the workforce as engineers or technicians. Female employment is encouraged, and a 400-person capacity daycare ensures smooth workforce integration. Additionally, comprehensive infrastructure is provided, including fire services, a health center, social facilities, and shopping areas.

Yapıcı described HAB as the “team star” of the defense industry, stating, “Our participants come together to create platforms such as KAAN, HÜRJET, HÜRKUŞ, GÖKBEY, ANKA-3, ATAK, ALTAY Tank, naval defense systems, and communication satellites.”