Turkish ARES to set up new company in Saudi Arabia

Logo of Turkish ARES 

Oğuzhan Pehlivanlı, CEO of Turkish shipbuilder ARES Shipyard, revealed plans to establish a new entity, ARES Naval, in Saudi Arabia, in partnership with a local Saudi partner.

In an interview with Breaking Defense, Pehlivanlı said the plan involves setting up two facilities in each of Dammam and Jeddah.

He said the facilities will manufacture naval platforms and provide end users with maintenance, repair and overhaul services.

Pehlivanlı said ARES will retain a majority stake in the new company, adding that the focus will be on cooperation with the Saudi government.

He noted that collaboration will be particularly close with Saudi naval champion Sofon — a key supplier to the Saudi navy and coast guard.

Pehlivanlı added that ARES will participate next week in the World Defense Show in Riyadh, showcasing its systems while offering joint production opportunities with Gulf countries.