ASELSAN Unveils Cutting-Edge Counter-Aircraft Solutions in Action
ASELSAN has successfully unveiled its cutting-edge Drone Defense System, showcasing a robust combination of the İHTAR Counter UAV System, GÖKBERK Laser Weapon System, and EJDERHA High-Power Microwave Weapon System. This live demonstration effectively addressed mini and micro UAV threats, illustrating the power of a multi-layered defense strategy within Türkiye’s Steel Dome air defense framework.
During a recent two-day event in Ankara, ASELSAN, Türkiye’s premier defense contractor, showcased its advanced counter-UAV capabilities to representatives from both Turkish and international media, as well as delegations from 20 nations. The event emphasized ASELSAN’s proficiency in detecting, tracking, and neutralizing a wide array of UAV threats in a synchronized operational setting. Featured drones included wirelessly controlled units, fiber-optic drones, and those operating in swarm formations, all handled through ASELSAN’s sophisticated command-and-control system.
ASELSAN’s Drone Defense System (DRONDEF), an AI-driven integrated anti-UAV solution, is engineered to eliminate mini/micro UAV threats with a detection range extending up to 10 km. This system employs a layered structure for both physical and functional disruption of drone subsystems. Key components of the DRONDEF include:
- İHTAR – Counter-UAV System (Detection and Soft Kill)
- GÖKBERK 5/10 Kw – Laser Weapon System
- KORKUT 25 – 25 mm Airburst Weapon System
- GÖKALP – Autonomous Interceptor Drone
- EJDERHA AD – High-Power Electromagnetic Pulse (HPEM)
- ŞAHİN LITE – 40/12.7/7.62 mm Airburst Weapon System
- ŞAHİN DUAL – 12.7 mm + 40/7.62 mm Airburst Weapon System
- MİĞFER – Self Defense Counter FPV System
All subsystems operate from a centralized Command and Control Center, offering comprehensive protection against mini/micro UAV threats. This flexibility allows for the security of critical facilities, convoy protection, and self-defense operations.
The demonstration commenced with two fiber-optic controlled drones approaching in a swarm formation. These threats were swiftly detected and categorized by the İHTAR Counter UAV System, integrated with ASELSAN’s AURA 200-G Multifunctional Surveillance Radar. The Drone Defense Operation Center quickly assessed the situation, deploying the EJDERHA High Power Microwave Weapon System, which efficiently neutralized both threats with its directed-energy technology.
Following this, two wirelessly controlled drones approached from different directions, heightening the complexity of the simulated threat environment.
Upon detection and classification, İHTAR activated its soft-kill capabilities to successfully disrupt and neutralize both drones prior to reaching engagement range. The climax of the scenario featured the launch of a fiber-optic controlled drone towards the defended area, showcasing the system’s hard-kill capabilities. Post-detection and classification, the laser weapon system GÖKBERK was deployed. It successfully acquired, tracked, and destroyed the target utilizing precise laser engagement, thereby completing the demonstration and affirming ASELSAN’s comprehensive approach to counter UAV defense.
ASELSAN underscored the interdependent roles of its sophisticated counter-UAV technologies orchestrated within a unified command-and-control framework during the demonstration. Central to the detection mechanism is the AURA 200-G Multifunctional Surveillance Radar, which delivers extensive detection, tracking, and classification of aerial threats. Meanwhile, İHTAR offers AI-powered threat assessment and soft-kill capabilities against hostile UAVs. In the hard-kill layer, the EJDERHA system employs high-power microwave technology to disrupt or incapacitate drone electronics, while GÖKBERK is responsible for engaging targets with laser precision. Combined, these systems create a cohesive and versatile defense architecture capable of tackling both individual and swarm UAV threats.
