Turkey’s ARCA Savunma Acquires NATO Supplier Esplodenti Sabino in Italy

Turkish defense company ARCA Savunma has made a bold move into the European defense market by acquiring Italy-based Esplodenti Sabino, a long-time supplier of munitions to NATO and the Italian Ministry of Defense. The strategic acquisition, led by Chairman İsmail Terlemez, significantly enhances Türkiye’s presence in the European defense supply chain and strengthens its footprint within NATO’s procurement ecosystem.

Strengthening Europe-Based Defense Capabilities

The acquired firm, headquartered in Casalbordino, is one of Europe’s few specialized companies engaged in munition, missile, and explosive disposal services. With decades of contracts supporting NATO and the Italian armed forces, Esplodenti Sabino brings critical capabilities and high-level defense sector credibility to ARCA Savunma’s expanding portfolio.

With this acquisition, ARCA Savunma positions itself as a key transnational player, deepening its role in the global military-industrial complex.

Although the financial terms of the acquisition remain undisclosed, it is considered a milestone for Turkish defense industry ambitions abroad.

What’s Next for the Casalbordino Facility?

The industry is now closely watching what ARCA will do with the Casalbordino production site, which has historically supported sensitive defense programs. While no immediate changes have been announced, speculation surrounds the potential expansion of production lines to include rockets, artillery ammunition, or plastic explosives, similar to ARCA’s current portfolio in Türkiye.

ARCA Savunma, headquartered in Ankara, already operates a diverse manufacturing base, producing:

• Artillery and mortar ammunition

• 20–40 km range rockets

• Plastic explosives and advanced warheads

The company’s Italy office in Milan will serve as a base for managing operations and EU-based defense partnerships.

Türkiye’s Global Defense Ambitions Gain Momentum

This move marks a strategic advancement for Türkiye’s defense sector, aligning with its long-term goals of becoming a global player in advanced arms manufacturing and export. By owning a firm that’s already integrated into NATO’s procurement and operational frameworks, ARCA Savunma boosts both credibility and access in European markets.

Industry analysts suggest the acquisition could pave the way for joint R&D, technology transfer, and expanded NATO-standard munitions production within the European Union.