Turkish defense firm Desan is marking a significant expansion by establishing its first overseas shipyard in Malaysia. The company announced on social media that it signed a Joint Venture and Cooperation Agreement with SM-WEZ, a local partner affiliated with the State of Malacca, aimed at developing the shipyard. This collaboration was officially launched during a ceremony held in Istanbul on January 8, 2024.
The new shipyard will focus on various activities including new shipbuilding, maintenance, repair, and modernization for both military and commercial vessels. Construction is set to commence early this year, with expectations for the facility to become operational within two years, spanning a total area of 171 acres.
Ongoing Projects and Future Collaborations
This initiative is not Desan’s first engagement with Malaysia; the company is currently constructing a Multi-Purpose Coast Guard Vessel (MPMS-1) for the Malaysian Coast Guard Command. Recently, Desan also signed a contract for a second vessel, MPMS-2, which will be equipped with advanced sensors, weapons, communication systems, and unmanned surface vessels (USVs).
According to Ali Bakir, a defense analyst and professor at Qatar University, this venture represents a transformative milestone for both Desan and Malaysia. He stated, “It marks a significant transition for the company as it moves from the domestic market to the international arena, highlighting its rising role in the maritime domain.” Bakir anticipates that this investment will enhance cooperation between Turkish and Malaysian defense industries, benefiting from ongoing defense agreements between Turkey and various Muslim nations in Southeast Asia.
Strategic Implications for Turkish Defense Industry
Turkey has been actively seeking defense cooperation agreements with Muslim nations in Southeast Asia, aiming to establish a stronger presence in these emerging markets. Bakir emphasized the rapid achievement of this goal as a major success for Ankara, suggesting it could revolutionize Turkey’s defense relationships in the region.
He noted that the Turkish defense industry’s openness is particularly attractive to Southeast Asian countries. This appeal is driven by the combination of relatively affordable defense equipment, effective platforms, and opportunities for technology transfer, which could significantly enhance the defense sectors of key Muslim nations.
As geopolitical tensions increase, with the US and China competing for influence and imposing restrictions on defense products, alternative solutions from third-party nations become increasingly appealing. Bakir concluded that this context positions Turkey as a valuable partner for countries seeking robust defense capabilities without the constraints often associated with traditional suppliers.
Desan’s expansion into Malaysia highlights both the potential for growth within the Turkish defense industry and the evolving dynamics of international defense partnerships, paving the way for future collaborations in the region.
