The unveiling of Türkiye's first fully domestically developed industrial robots, the SR40 and SR80, at the SAHA 2026 International Defense, Aerospace and Space Industry Fair in Istanbul, marks a significant milestone in Ankara's ambitious plan to revolutionize its industrial landscape. This development is not just a technological achievement but a strategic move to address a critical challenge: reducing the country's reliance on foreign technology and closing a substantial foreign trade deficit. With a target of deploying 200,000 industrial robots by 2030, Türkiye aims to transform its industrial sector, enhancing both its domestic capabilities and global competitiveness.
The SR40 and SR80, part of the GRASS industrial robot family, are designed with versatility and precision in mind. With payload capacities of 40 kilograms and 80 kilograms, respectively, these robots are tailored for a wide range of applications, including automotive, food, metalworking, and heavy industry sectors. Their development is a testament to the Altinay Robot Group's expertise and commitment to innovation, having worked in the field for over 35 years. The group's HAMLE Program, launched in 2020, has not only resulted in the creation of these robots but also the development of a comprehensive vertical technology stack, including servo motors, reducers, and motor drivers, all utilizing domestic capabilities.
The ceremony, attended by Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacir and Defense Industries Secretariat (SSB) head Haluk Gorgun, highlighted the strategic importance of this project. Minister Kacir emphasized the need for digital transformation to be implemented using domestic and national technologies, particularly focusing on cybersecurity. This approach aligns with Türkiye's broader goals of reducing its dependency on foreign technology and enhancing its self-sufficiency in critical sectors. The minister also linked the project to the ambitious 2030 Industry and Technology Strategy, which aims to increase the number of industrial robots in use from 30,000 to 200,000, thereby addressing the $12 billion potential foreign trade deficit in technology.
The establishment of a 30,000-square-meter production facility in the Tuzla Industrial Free Zone is a significant step forward. Altinay Robot Group Chairman Hakan Altinay announced that this facility will soon begin producing industrial robots at a national scale, further solidifying Türkiye's position as a leader in robotics and automation. The support from the ministry, as praised by Haluk Gorgun, is crucial in sustaining the ecosystem, from prime contractors to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), ensuring the continued growth and development of the robotics industry in Türkiye.
In conclusion, the introduction of Türkiye's first fully domestically developed industrial robots is a pivotal moment in the country's industrial evolution. It not only showcases technological prowess but also underscores a strategic shift towards self-reliance and innovation. As Türkiye continues to invest in its robotics and automation capabilities, it is poised to not only meet its domestic needs but also become a significant player in the global market, potentially reshaping the landscape of industrial robotics and automation.
