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Newsletter No:2

Newsletter No:2

01 Kasım 2024

ASELSAN launches new anti-drone systems at SAHA EXPO 2024


ASELSAN has introduced new anti-drone systems KORKUT 25 mm, BUKALEMUN, KANGAL-FPV and SEDA 100-cUAV at a launching ceremony on the first day of SAHA EXPO 2024. The company has brought its assertion in the field of anti-drone systems to a new level with these launches.

ASELSAN, Türkiye’s leading defense company, is showcasing its engineering expertise of nearly 50 years at SAHA EXPO. As part of the product launches organized within the framework of SAHA EXPO, ASELSAN proudly unveiled one of its next generation anti-drone systems, KORKUT 25 mm remote-controlled weapon system and unmanned turret, BUKALEMUN GNSS spoofing system, KANGAL-FPV jamming system and SEDA 100-cUAV acoustic detection system integrated into the İHTAR anti-drone system.

KORKUT 25 mm is primarily designed against armored land targets, making it an ideal solution for integration onto tactical vehicles. It stands out with its integrability on different land vehicles such as 4x4, 6x6, and 8x8 wheeled or tracked platforms. Its innovative indigenous design also enables it to effectively counter mini - micro UAV threats, particularly in rural environments. Equipped with 25mm airburst ammunition, KORKUT 25 possesses both soft and hard kill capabilities against UAVs, leveraging data from external sensors such as radar and surveillance cameras. KORKUT 25 can be used in various combat scenarios with its gyro stabilized structure, remote operability feature, high resolution day and night/infra-red cameras as well as a laser range finder, automated target detection and tracking function, advanced automatic ballistic calculation with high firing accuracy.

BUKALEMUN GNSS Spoofing system has the ability to deceive the UAVs cruising via their Multi-GNSS receivers. Being the pioneer system in the theme of spoofing, BUKALEMUN successfully provides static and dynamic deception capabilities for considerably extended distances within the pre-defined scenarios. KANGAL-FPV jamming system, launched at SAHA EXPO, has been developed as a Counter-FPV electronic warfare measurement by means of neutralization of FPVs in the electronic warfare spectrum. SEDA 100-cUAV acoustic detection system integrated into the İHTAR anti-drone system is equipped with precisely defined and positioned microphones, listens to the environment and detects UAVs at longer ranges compared to its foreign counterparts on the market.

ASELSAN President & CEO Ahmet Akyol commented on the launch of the systems: “As ASELSAN, we are closely following the changing conditions and increasing threats on the battlefield in today’s world and developing advanced systems with high adaptability. We are witnessing the increasing use of drones in operations and we believe our anti-drone systems with addition of new capabilities will offer superiority to its users in elimination of the drone threats. In line with our strategic goals, we will steadfastly continue to design and develop game changing technologies for many years to come.”

New Electronic Warfare Pods from ASELSAN at SAHA EXPO 2024


ASELSAN has unveiled its latest electronic warfare pods, ANTIDOT 2-U LB/MB/HB, ANTIDOT 2-U, and ANTIDOT 2-U/S, on the second day of SAHA EXPO. These pods transform UAVs into powerful electronic warfare platforms, highlighting ASELSAN's advanced engineering and global expertise in electronic warfare technology.

ASELSAN, Türkiye’s leading defense company, has introduced its new electronic warfare pods with the participation of the Secretary of Defense Industries, Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün and ASELSAN President & CEO, Ahmet Akyol. These pods empower UAVs in terms of detection and classification of any air defense threat in addition to jamming capabilities. These pods do not only protect the UAVs carrying them but also safeguard other friendly air assets operating nearby.

ASELSAN's cutting-edge ANTIDOT 2-U system turns tactical UAVs into electronic warfare weapons, providing protection against air defense systems and supporting critical missions. ANTIDOT 2-U LB/MB/HB system identifies and defends against air defense threats, with escort jamming capability to protect nearby air assets. ANTIDOT 2-U/S system detects, records, and locates signals from threat radars, ensuring precise threat identification and location.

ANTIDOT 2-U system provides UAVs with protection against air defense systems and contributes to the successful fulfillment of critical missions. The system can be seamlessly integrated into all UAVs capable of carrying UAV munitions such as MAM-L, allowing users to decide whether to mount ammunition or the POD on any pylon prior to the mission ensuring no compromise on mission flexibility.

The fully autonomous system uses loaded electronic attack techniques to suppress and deceive air defense radars. With high output power, wide frequency, and angle coverage, it protects UAVs and friendly assets from RF threats. Weighing just 45kg and operating at 1100W, it can be installed on tactical-class UAVs without converting them into special mission aircraft, enhancing their capabilities.

ANTIDOT 2-U LB/MB/HB is a compact electronic warfare system with both support and attack capabilities, designed to detect and neutralize air defense systems while protecting its platform and nearby assets with escort jamming. It allows UAVs to approach targets within munition range undetected. Lightweight and versatile, it integrates easily with UAVs equipped for MAM-L ammunition, offering flexible mounting options. Multiple pods can be fitted based on mission needs. The system weighs 11kg, operates at 380W, and comes in various versions (LB/MB/HB) for different threats.

ANTIDOT 2-U/S electronic support system detects, identifies, and records signals from threat air defense radars, accurately determining their direction and location. Data is instantly sent to the Ground Control Station via the UAV's communication line. Designed for easy integration onto tactical-class UAVs, the system enhances situational awareness in the electromagnetic spectrum without risking lives, offering cost-effective operations. Weighing 30kg and operating at 400W, it functions fully autonomously.

New Agreements and Contracts from ASELSAN at SAHA EXPO 2024


ASELSAN reflected its strong collaborations and partnerships with the leading players of the defense industry to SAHA EXPO 2024 International Defense & Aerospace Exhibition, with the strategic agreements and contracts signed on the side-line of this important event.

ASELSAN signed sales contracts with Turkish platform manufacturer Baykar, with a total value of 95.1 Million USD at SAHA EXPO. Of this total value, 87.8 Million USD are contracts for the export of payloads consisting of friend or foe recognition system, satellite communication systems, airborne radio systems, munition systems, and electro-optical systems for the end users in Asia and Africa.

ASELSAN also signed a collaboration agreement with United Arab Emirates (UAE) Defense Company, Calidus Aerospace for Cockpit Display Units (CDUs) for Calidus airborne platforms and for cockpit display related technologies during SAHA EXPO 2024.

The companies have recently signed a collaboration agreement for the development and delivery of Cockpit Display Units and related products and services. The solution will be customized for Calidus customers and tailored to the operational roles and requirements of these platforms. Both companies will also collaborate in cockpit display related technologies, co-production, retrofits, upgrades, and software development. The partnership is aimed at driving innovation and enhancing the capabilities of Calidus Aerospace’s airborne platforms and related offerings.

ASELSAN would develop and integrate Cockpit Display Unit kits customized for the Calidus airborne platforms, featuring ASELSAN Displays, Avionics computers, Navigation systems, and related software. ASELSAN would integrate and deliver the solution in a short time to meet the platform delivery schedule. Moreover, ASELSAN and Calidus Aerospace agreed to join forces in retrofitting and upgrading rotary and fixed-wing platforms locally, in the UAE's inventory, in terms of modernization and weaponization.

Successful Firing Test from TOLUN with ANKA-III


ASELSAN’s TOLUN, which multiplies the power of air platforms in the field, has completed the firing tests conducted from the ANKA-III, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). In its first firing test conducted in Konya, Türkiye, TOLUN was deployed individually and hit the target with pinpoint accuracy.

During the firing test, ANKA III hit the target from 20 thousand feet with a speed of 180 knots with ASELSAN’s TOLUN ammunition with full accuracy. Secretary of Defense Industries, Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün watched the whole test live from İstanbul and congratulated the team that conducted the successful test.

ASELSAN President & CEO, Ahmet Akyol, celebrated the results on his social media accounts and said: “We will steadfastly continue developing game changing technologies that will strengthen our UCAVs.”

ASELSAN’s Export Performance Reflected on Q3 Financials


ASELSAN has announced its financial results for the third quarter of 2024. Accordingly, revenues reached 60.7 billion TL (over 1.7 billion USD) with an 14% growth compared to the same period of last year. The new contracts worth 3.2 billion USD brought total backlog of the company to 12.6 billion USD.

ASELSAN, Türkiye’s leading defense company, continued its steady growth in the first nine months of the year, with 14% annual growth. The company reported 60.7 billion TL (over 1.7 billion USD) revenue, 14.4 billion TL EBITDA with 24% EBITDA margin. The new contracts signed reached 3.2 billion USD bringing the company’s total backlog to 12.6 billion USD. Total value of export contracts signed in the first nine months grew by 52% compared to the same period of 2023.

ASELSAN President & CEO Ahmet Akyol evaluated the nine-month financial results: “Our financial results clearly show our steady growth. To enhance and ensure the sustainability of this growth, we set export as the key item on our agenda. The third quarter was particularly noteworthy for our export performance as we signed export contracts of ASELFLIR-500, the world's best UAV camera, and our TOLUN guided munition to Azerbaijan. We have also signed contracts with our customers in the Asia-Pacific region to supply payloads including remote-controlled stabilized weapon system, radar, inertial navigation, identification friend or foe systems and electronic warfare suite.

We have recently conducted several successful firing tests. BAYKAR’S AKINCI hit the target with full accuracy in the firing test conducted with our Guided Munition TOLUN IIR with infrared seeker. ASELFLIR-500 was used in the successful first firing test of ANKA-III   TUSAŞ. The firing test of our Long-Range Air Defense System SİPER Product-2 System also made us proud. We also completed the first long range firing of the Air Defense Missile System HİSAR-O.

We introduced ASELSAN ZMA-X which we have modernized by equipping it with indigenous sensors at TEKNOFEST Adana. Additionally, our Unmanned Ground Vehicle ASLAN became the first vehicle weighing over 500 kilograms to enter the inventory. We have added new capabilities to the MARLIN family, which is the first Unmanned Surface Vehicle to enter the inventory of our Naval Forces. We have successfully conducted the ballistic firing test of the KUZGUN Cruise Missile from MARLIN.

These achievements are capturing the attention of our young engineers living abroad, who are eager to return Türkiye to work at ASELSAN. In the first nine months of 2024, job applications to ASELSAN from abroad realized as three times higher than last year’s total, reflecting strong confidence in ASELSAN's future.

As we approach our 50th anniversary, we have set a vision for the future, which we call AselsaneXt 2030, with a primary focus on 2030 and beyond. We are determined to place ASELSAN among the 30 largest defense companies in the world until 2030 by producing the best-in class products, developing game-changing technologies and by expanding our global reach.”

Direct Hit with ASELSAN’s LGK


In a series of successful tests conducted in Azerbaijan, the QFAB-250 LG bomb—developed by Azerbaijan's Ministry of Defense Industry—demonstrated impressive accuracy, hitting its target precisely with ASELSAN’s Laser Guidance Kit (LGK) integration. This milestone comes as a result of extensive joint efforts spanning R&D, prototype development, ground testing, platform integration, and field trials.

During the trials, SU-25 fighter jets from the Azerbaijan Air Force released QFAB-250 LG bombs equipped with ASELSAN's LGK, which turned the bombs into high-precision smart munitions. Utilizing targeting pods on aircraft or infantry-supported laser designation, these LGK-integrated bombs were able to locate and eliminate targets with remarkable precision.

Ahmet Akyol, President & CEO of ASELSAN, celebrated the successful outcome on social media, stating: “Our Laser Guidance Kit (LGK) is ready for mission with the QFAB-250 bomb. Effective range, precise hit, high effectiveness. With Azerbaijan, we are ‘one nation, two states’ in technology, as well.”

This isn’t ASELSAN’s first collaboration with Azerbaijan, as the LGK system was previously utilized in other munitions during the Second Karabakh War. Under the continued partnership with Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Defense, ASELSAN’s guidance systems will be further integrated into the Azerbaijan military’s arsenal, including future combat aircraft and armed drones, significantly enhancing Azerbaijan's precision strike capabilities. This cooperation underscores the shared vision and technological strides between the two nations.

ASELSAN Equips Türkiye's T625 GÖKBEY Helicopter with Advanced Avionics Systems


ASELSAN has made significant contributions to Türkiye's T625 GÖKBEY, the nation's first locally designed and produced multirole utility helicopter developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), equipping it with state-of-the-art indigenous avionics systems that meet global civil aviation standards. The T625 GÖKBEY, now delivered to the Turkish Gendarmerie General Command, integrates 34 advanced avionics systems developed by ASELSAN, such as a flight control computer, national communications systems, identification systems, modular displays, panels, and navigation systems.

These features, designed to compete with avionics suites worldwide, underscore the Turkish defense industry's progress toward self-reliance, providing unmatched performance and reliability for diverse mission profiles. ASELSAN’s experience spans over 1,100 aircraft upgrades, including helicopters and UAVs, showcasing the company’s role in modernizing Turkish aerospace with homegrown solutions tailored to both military and civilian standards.

ASELSAN’s continuous advancements also include mission computers and critical software development, key elements supporting Türkiye’s national defense goals and independence. With its technology, ASELSAN is reinforcing Türkiye’s aviation sector and elevating the T625 GÖKBEY’s capabilities to new levels, both locally and globally.

Siper-1 Long-range Air Defense System has entered the inventory of Turkish Armed Forces


The deterrent power of the Steel Dome, the SİPER Product-1 System, has entered the Turkish Armed Forces inventory. SİPER Product-1, ASELSAN’s long-range air defense system, provides effective long-range and high-altitude defense, strengthening Türkiye’s goal of fully protecting the country's borders with domestically developed systems. SİPER System will be able to engage aerial targets such as fighter jets and cruise missiles, as well as air-to-ground munitions. SİPER Air Defense System has the ability to operate with 8 FFS, each of which can fire 6 missiles.

Development work continues on the SİPER Product-2 system, which will have even more advanced capabilities. The Long-Range Regional Air Defense System, SİPER Product-1, which has entered the Turkish Armed Forces' inventory, will serve as a powerful deterrent against strategic targets and air assaults.

ASELSAN President & CEO Ahmet Akyol shared the news on his social media and mentioned: “We have brought to our country a system that only a few countries in the world have been able to develop. We will continue to work towards a fully independent defence industry with even greater effort.”