Exploring RAFF Military Textile’s Journey with SAHA Istanbul and the Anticipation for SAHA Expo 2026
RAFF Military Textile has established itself as a vital player within the defense and aerospace ecosystem, notably through its long-standing membership with SAHA Istanbul. SAHA Istanbul represents the largest defense and aerospace cluster in Türkiye and Europe, serving as a springboard for innovation, collaboration, and strategic partnerships in the global defense sector. Being a member of this prestigious organization has been instrumental in shaping RAFF’s positioning, development, and engagements globally.
Insights from the 5th Global Strategies Conference
At the recent 5th Global Strategies Conference in Defence & Aviation Industry held in Antalya, an exciting conversation unfolded between RAFF’s representatives and the General Manager of SAHA Istanbul. This meeting highlighted RAFF’s visibility on Military Africa, which led to an invitation to share insights about the upcoming SAHA Expo 2026. This invitation was embraced with enthusiasm as it falls in line with RAFF’s commitment to contributing to the defense industry’s growth.
SAHA Expo 2026 Overview
SAHA 2026, the International Defence and Aerospace Exhibition, is set to occur at the Istanbul Expo Center from May 5 to May 9, 2026. This event promises to transcend the typical trade show format, transforming into a dynamic and results-oriented platform. Here, innovative capabilities are validated, procurement priorities clarified, and partnerships are cultivated from initial intent to actual implementation. With over 100,000+ sqm of exhibition space and 1,500+ exhibitors, Istanbul is poised to become a nexus for strategic collaboration.
Exceptional Results from Previous Editions
RAFF is gearing up to align its showcase with the exhibition’s guiding vision: “Rule Technology, Shape the Future.” The successful results of the previous edition in 2024 set the bar high, featuring 1,478 companies from over 120 countries, managing 25,000+ scheduled meetings, launching 200+ products, executing 133 cooperation agreements, and generating a remarkable USD 6.2 billion in business volume. SAHA 2026 aims to build upon this success by focusing on critical themes such as investment-ready technology portfolios, scalable production capabilities, and export-driven value chain integration.
Direct Engagement with Decision-Makers
One of the primary draws of SAHA 2026 is the opportunity it provides for direct access to both commercial and official delegations. Hosted buyers and procurement teams will be on-site to assess capabilities, expediting supplier selections and fostering long-term planning for co-production routes. This environment encourages institutional decision-makers to interact closely with the ecosystem’s capabilities, promoting trust and collaboration.
Innovative Exhibition Experiences
The exhibition aims to offer more than just traditional displays. A noteworthy addition is the Outdoor & Naval Exhibition Area, which will feature naval asset visits at Sarayburnu and Ataköy. This setup allows for an immersive experience with full-scale platforms and live demonstrations. Engaging competitions, such as the FPV Drone Area, SAHA UGV Challenge, and SAHA Rover Challenge, will showcase technology under realistic conditions, further emphasizing the innovative spirit of the event.
A standout feature of this edition is the World Drone Wars, an exciting new platform where First-Person View (FPV) technologies are tested in simulated warfare settings. This initiative not only accelerates technological advancements but also affirms Türkiye’s growing reputation as a leader in FPV capability development.
Knowledge Sharing and Innovation
Beyond the physical exhibition, SAHA Talks and keynote sessions will tackle pressing issues like digital transformation, AI, dual-use technologies, and emerging threats. In a unique twist, the Space Dome—inspired by planetarium design—will host international guests, industry leaders, and decision-makers in discussions aimed at expanding horizons in defense capabilities.
A special emphasis will be placed on facilitating connections among startups, scale-ready SMEs, corporate investors, and strategic partners, particularly in dual-use sectors that resonate with NATO DIANA and the NATO Innovation Fund (NIF). The focus on supply-chain readiness, scalability, and market access ensures that upcoming innovations in defense can effectively meet market demands.
A Call to Action for Industry Participants
The overarching message is clear: if your strategic priorities for 2026 involve exports, supplier positioning, co-production, or technology partnerships, attending SAHA Expo 2026 is essential. RAFF encourages companies within the sector to register early and devise meeting plans that transform visibility into tangible outcomes. This exhibition not only represents an opportunity for growth but serves as a vital accelerator for achieving strategic goals within the complex landscape of defense and aerospace.