SPARK Event at ITU Maritime Faculty

The first event of the 2025 "Innovation Continuum" series, aimed at promoting the use of emerging and groundbreaking technologies, innovation, interoperability, and experimentation in NATO activities, SPARK was organized under the coordination of the Secretariat of Turkish Defence Industries and hosted by our Maritime Faculty from February 25-27, 2025.

The first event of the 2025 "Innovation Continuum" series, SPARK, was organized under the coordination of the SSB and hosted by our Maritime Faculty at our Tuzla Campus from February 25-27, 2025. Initiated by NATO Allied Command Transformation (ACT) and first launched in 2024, the "Innovation Continuum" event series aims to promote the use of emerging and groundbreaking technologies, innovation, interoperability, and experimentation in NATO activities.

Prof. Dr. Lütfiye Durak Ata, Vice Rector of ITU, and Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün, Secretary of the Turkish Defence Industries (SSB), gave opening speeches at the event.

Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Lütfiye Ata emphasized that this event would enhance cooperation between NATO and allied countries and strengthen Türkiye's leadership in the defence industry along with ITU's international competencies in security and innovation. Prof. Dr. Lütfiye Durak Ata also highlighted that our Maritime Faculty plays a critical role in maritime policies, strategies, and defence industry applications.

Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün, Secretary of Turkish Defence Industries, emphasized that SPARK provides a critical platform at the heart of innovation, R&D, and international collaboration, shaping NATO’s future capabilities. Prof. Dr. Görgün stated that this event supports the goals of strengthening the compatibility of our national defence industry with international standards, participating in joint projects with our allies, and enhancing our innovation ecosystem.

Prof. Dr. Hasan Mandal, Rector of ITU, attended the event on its final day due to an overseas program and shared his insights. Prof. Dr. Mandal described the Innovation Continuum as a unique model aimed at fostering cooperation and a culture of collaboration in the defence industry. He noted that the technologies gained through the Innovation Continuum can also be adapted for civilian sectors. Additionally, the Rector announced that the final phase of the Innovation Continuum series, SHINE, will also be held at our university. He extended his gratitude to the Secretary of Turkish Defence Industries, Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün, for selecting ITU as the host and for his valuable support.

During the SPARK event, approximately 180 participants from NATO agencies and NATO member countries had the opportunity to present their capabilities, projects, and operational applications in emerging and groundbreaking technologies in the fields of defence and security. From our country, 13 companies, TÜBİTAK, and three military research centres actively participated in the event, showcasing the advanced technological capabilities and innovative potential of our national defence industry on the international stage.