Forte GM Flagship: The Defense Industry Faces High Costs Over the Long Lifespan of Complex Systems

In today's rapidly advancing technological landscape, where countries are significantly enhancing their defense industries, collaborations have become increasingly important. Recently introduced in Brussels, the domestically developed FORIPS Suite software by ELD Bilişim, a 100% subsidiary of Forte Teknoloji, has drawn considerable attention. Continuing these steps, a conference organized by Forte Bilgi İletişim (IS:FORTE) Teknolojileri ve Savunma Sanayi A.Ş and ELD Bilişim aims to strengthen business relationships, bringing together EU system decision-makers for discussions and statements.

IPS IS INDISPENSABLE FOR MODERN DEFENSE SYSTEMS WORLDWIDE Phill Williams, Chairman of the IPS Council, stated: "Integrated Product Support (IPS) systems are critical in the defense sector. The primary goal of IPS is to ensure that more equipment remains operational during battles or operations. For example, if both sides start a war with 100 aircraft, thanks to IPS, the UK can keep 85 of its aircraft ready for use, while the competitor may only operate 40 aircraft. This provides a significant advantage. This system can be utilized not only in military but also in civilian applications. Its aim is to enhance efficiency by reducing costs throughout the product's lifecycle. IPS emerges as an indispensable component of modern defense. Improvements in technology and support processes allow the UK to be better prepared against global threats. Additionally, military and industrial partnerships aim to provide cost-effective and sustainable solutions in defense projects,” he explained.

A 10% SAVINGS POSSIBLE WITH FORIPS SOFTWARE IN THE DEFENSE INDUSTRY Hasan Cengiz Bayrak, General Manager of FORTE, stated: “The defense industry faces high costs throughout the long lifecycle of complex systems. Particularly, maintenance, repair, and spare parts management constitute a significant portion of total costs. As the Turkish Armed Forces are expected to spend $50 billion on new weapon systems, around $100 billion is anticipated for the maintenance and operation of these systems. This striking difference highlights the importance of cost management and process optimization in the defense industry. Furthermore, the lack of integration among contractors in the defense sector increases costs in logistic processes. The FORIPS software developed by ELD Bilişim offers an innovative solution to this issue. FORIPS creates a common digital platform between prime contractors and subcontractors, standardizing spare parts. Compliant with NATO standards, this software accelerates the supply of spare parts and enables a 10% reduction in costs, amounting to $10 billion savings from the projected $100 billion expenses. Modularity and digital integration in the defense industry provide not only economic advantages but also operational benefits. The use of standard spare parts reduces maintenance times and increases the availability of systems. Additionally, digital integration enhances transparency in the supply chain, making processes more efficient. Furthermore, reducing the environmental impacts of these systems is one of the cornerstones of a sustainable defense industry," he stated.

ASD Supply Chain & Service Manager Paul CRAMERS remarked: “ASD is an organization aimed at advocating for the interests of the aerospace, defense, and security industries in Europe. Based in Brussels, it collaborates with EU institutions and organizations such as NATO. In this context, it prepares position papers and develops technical documents, specifications, and standards. ASD continues to work to protect the interests of the European defense industry, meet the needs of its members, and emphasize the importance of service costs within total expenses. The Services Commission is particularly focused on developing innovative approaches in performance-based contracts and maintenance management.”

“LOGISTICS IS LIKE BREATHING; YOU FEEL IT WHEN IT STOPS” Turaç YAVUZ, Head of Department at the Ministry of National Defense, stated: “Logistics planning is crucial for an operation. After the Ukraine-Russia war, logistics-related concepts have resurfaced within NATO, one of which includes the importance of collective logistics and the interchangeability of spare parts and materials. The most critical aspect of operations is logistics which is why we continue our efforts in preparation for threat-based operations. While conducting these activities, we perform combat simulations to obtain accurate measurements and logistical technical data, which is essential to see how prepared we are for different scenarios.”

Oğuz Hamşioğlu, Secretary General of SASAD (Defense and Aerospace Industry Manufacturers Association), said: "We are part of this event as part of the mission undertaken by SASAD. This event, organized with international participants in the aerospace and defense industry, is very important for our sector. The existence and strength of the defense industry are extremely important for a country's independence and security and are fundamental to the country's survival. In a period where technological development and innovations are progressing rapidly, the sustainability of systems becomes even more crucial. Integrated logistics and integrated product support have gained importance in this context. These methods aim to extend the product’s life, optimize the maintenance process, and maximize operational efficiency. Our purpose for being here is to facilitate solutions that will advance the industry and raise awareness."