Baku: Seven private companies in Azerbaijan have commenced production of military products, marking a significant shift in the nation's defense industry. President Ilham Aliyev announced in an interview with local television channels that this development follows the strategic decision to involve private enterprises in defense production, a sector previously dominated by state monopoly.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, President Aliyev reflected on the evolution of the Ministry of Defense Industry since its establishment two decades ago. He highlighted the global trend of private sector involvement in defense and emphasized that incorporating private companies helps alleviate the state's financial and operational burden. Over the past two years, Azerbaijan has granted licenses to 15 companies in this field, with seven already operational in military production.

President Aliyev also detailed the financial investments in this sector, revealing that a total of one billion manats is being allocated between 2024 and 2025 for the creation and expansion of production sites. Notably, the private sector is contributing half of this investment. While information regarding this area is limited due to its sensitive nature, the President assured that the integration of private companies into military production is progressing extensively.