Leading Figures from Technology and Industry Gather on Campus

The “DEXPO: IEEE Haliç Defense Expo & Conference” organized by the IEEE Student Society of our university, brought together leading figures from the defense and technology sectors. The event stood out for its focus on current technological developments and its strong emphasis on fostering meaningful interaction between students and industry professionals.

The program opened with a speech by Rector Prof. Dr. Enes Eryarsoy who addressed the evolution of artificial intelligence and noted its roots in early defense projects. Tracing its development from the perceptron model to multi-layer neural networks, he highlighted the contributions of pioneering scientists and pointed to the rapid progress the field has made in recent years. He also emphasized that the defense industry plays a vital role not only in military innovation but also in advancing civilian technologies. Stressing the value of interdisciplinary collaboration, he encouraged students to actively engage in research, innovation, and collaboration.

The program continued with talks by distinguished experts. Prof. Dr. Hakan Karataş, Vice President of the Presidency of Defense Industries, noted that the defense sector has become increasingly critical in response to evolving forms of warfare. He explained that modern conflicts now extend beyond the battlefield, encompassing cyber, economic, and psychological dimensions. Highlighting Türkiye’s significant progress in recent years, he underscored the importance of a skilled workforce within a growing ecosystem shaped by collaboration among universities, public institutions, and the private sector.

Murat Özpala, Türkiye’s first experimental test pilot, shared his insights and professional experiences in aviation, defense, and technology. As part of the program, the “Meet the Industry: Networking & Exhibition Area” session enabled students to connect directly with industry representatives.

In the afternoon, Dr. Burak Keskik, Deputy General Manager of Teknopark Istanbul, spoke about Türkiye’s advances in critical defense technologies. He highlighted progress in domestic engine development, satellite technologies, and air defense systems, emphasizing the increasing integration of defense technologies with fields such as artificial intelligence.

The program also featured talks by HAVELSAN Project Engineer Tahir Uras and Seyfeddin Cevdet Uludoğan, Chairman of the Board of Ulu Doğan.

Throughout the event, speakers emphasized the strategic importance of the defense industry in a rapidly changing global landscape, noting that cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and advanced technologies are becoming key drivers. They also highlighted Türkiye’s growing international competitiveness, supported by its expanding ecosystem, increasing export capacity and dynamic young talent pool.

DEXPO served as a strong platform connecting academia and the defense industry, offering participants valuable insights into current developments and opportunities to engage directly with sector professionals. At the end of the event, participants received certificates approved through the national e-Government system.