General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI), a leading U.S. defense contractor, has urged Elon Musk to spearhead reforms in the Pentagon’s procurement system, citing Türkiye’s growing edge in the global drone market.
Call for Urgent Reforms
In a letter to Musk, GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue blamed sluggish U.S. government policies and bureaucratic delays for allowing countries like Türkiye, China, and Israel to outpace American drone manufacturers. He called for “bold leadership” to address inefficiencies, arguing that delayed sales to international clients hinder the company’s ability to reinvest in research and development.
GA-ASI, known for its Predator drones, joins other defense firms, including L3Harris Technologies, in pushing for streamlined Pentagon contracting processes through the Department of Operational Guidance and Efficiency (DOGE), co-led by Musk and former Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy.
Türkiye’s Drone Supremacy
Türkiye currently dominates 65% of global drone exports, with Baykar alone controlling nearly 60%—three times the market share of its closest U.S. competitor. The company’s Bayraktar TB2 drones have gained worldwide recognition, particularly for their role in Ukraine’s defense against Russia.
Baykar continues to expand its capabilities, developing heavy Akıncı drones, the Bayraktar TB3 for naval operations, and Kızılelma, Türkiye’s first unmanned fighter jet. The firm has already secured agreements with at least 34 countries for the TB2 and 10 nations for the Akıncı.
Regulatory Barriers and Proposed Changes
Blue criticized outdated U.S. policies, particularly the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), which he believes unfairly restricts American drone exports while benefiting foreign competitors. He urged Musk to streamline the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) process, prioritize arms sales to U.S. allies, and enforce stricter policies to counter what he described as “unfair market advantages” gained by non-MTCR nations.
The DOGE panel, established by President Donald Trump, aims to cut bureaucracy, eliminate regulatory hurdles, and enhance U.S. military competitiveness. If implemented, these changes could significantly benefit American defense firms while countering Türkiye’s rise as a global drone powerhouse.
