Selçuk Bayraktar warns of technological risks at IAC 2026

At the 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2026) held in Antalya, Baykar Chairman Selçuk Bayraktar issued a warning regarding the trajectory of modern technological advancement. During a panel titled ‘The Future Starts Here: Technology, Space, and the New Generation,’ Bayraktar emphasized that the purpose behind technology is more critical than the technology itself.

Bayraktar noted that many devices perceived as civilian, such as smartphones and smartwatches, also function as intelligence-gathering tools. He expressed concern over the rise of artificial intelligence, suggesting it is increasingly performing the cognitive tasks once reserved for humans. He further criticized a global strategy aimed at creating dependency by making populations addicted to and reliant on specific technologies without alternatives.

Warning of a potential ‘terrible destruction’ for future generations if current levels of technological ambition and warfare continue, Bayraktar urged humanity to reflect on its direction. He suggested that without a shift in how these tools are utilized, the rapid accumulation of technological and military power could threaten the very existence of humanity.