Aselsan’s Systems Offered at IDEF 2025

Turkish defense powerhouse Aselsan has positioned itself at the forefront of global air defense technology with its ambitious Steel Dome project, a comprehensive multi-layered defense system that mirrors Israel’s renowned Iron Dome concept. The Steel Dome represents Turkiye’s strategic push toward defense independence while simultaneously targeting aggressive international expansion, with the company’s market capitalization now exceeding $20 billion and a growing backlog of over $15 billion in orders.

At the recent International Defense Industry Fair, Aselsan unveiled an impressive array of cutting-edge systems designed to strengthen Turkiye’s defensive capabilities. The company demonstrated several groundbreaking technologies, including the KORAL 200 mobile radar electronic warfare system, which provides enhanced battlefield awareness and threat detection capabilities.

The TURAN Brigade mobile communication system represents another significant advancement, offering secure and reliable communications across various military operations. Additionally, the EJDERHA high-power electromagnetic counter-UAV protection system addresses the growing threat of unmanned aerial vehicles, while the GÜRZ unmanned air defense system provides automated protection against aerial threats.

Expanding beyond terrestrial defense, Aselsan has integrated sophisticated naval components into the Steel Dome framework. The GOKSUR vertical-launch system serves as a highly capable naval missile launcher, providing ships with enhanced defensive and offensive capabilities against multiple threat vectors.

The CENK 4D 2-Axis AESA multifunctional radar system represents a technological leap in maritime surveillance and target acquisition. This advanced radar system enables simultaneous tracking of multiple targets while providing comprehensive situational awareness for naval operations, making it an integral component of Turkiye’s comprehensive defense strategy.

The Turkish government has demonstrated strong commitment to the Steel Dome project through substantial financial backing. In March, the Ministry of Industry and Technology announced a significant $616 million investment specifically allocated for expanding Aselsan’s manufacturing facilities and capabilities.

This substantial investment underscores Turkiye’s determination to achieve defense independence while positioning the country as a major player in the global defense export market. The funding will enable Aselsan to scale production capabilities and accelerate development timelines for critical defense technologies.

Aselsan CEO Ahmet Akyol emphasized that modern defense systems must evolve continuously to address emerging threats. The company recognizes that no defense system can remain static, particularly given the rapidly changing nature of contemporary warfare and threat environments.

The Steel Dome project incorporates adaptive technologies designed to counter threats across multiple atmospheric layers. This comprehensive approach ensures that Turkiye’s air defense capabilities remain effective against current and future threats, from traditional aircraft to advanced missile systems and emerging technologies.

While Steel Dome primarily serves Turkiye’s domestic defense needs, Aselsan has identified significant export opportunities in strategic regions. The company has received substantial interest from Gulf states and Eastern European countries, reflecting growing global demand for comprehensive air defense solutions.

Akyol highlighted that recent global conflicts have created unprecedented demand for advanced defense systems. Rather than simply exporting finished products, Aselsan prefers collaborative approaches involving co-production, co-design, and co-investment partnerships with international clients, creating mutually beneficial relationships that extend beyond traditional buyer-seller dynamics.

Aselsan has undergone a fundamental business transformation, shifting from a project-focused approach to a product-centered strategy. This strategic pivot has enabled the company to achieve remarkable growth across multiple performance metrics over the past 18 months.

The transformation program has delivered impressive results, with double-digit growth in new product development, market capitalization, revenue backlogs, and export percentages. This comprehensive growth strategy positions Aselsan for sustained long-term success in increasingly competitive global defense markets.

Looking toward 2030, Aselsan has established concrete objectives that reflect its global ambitions. The company aims to rank among the top 30 global defense companies while generating 50 percent of its revenue from international markets, with particular focus on Gulf States and Far East countries.

Also read this: Türkiye’s Siper Missile System Ready for Deployment After Final Tests

The company’s five-year strategic plan emphasizes continuous double-digit growth across all operational areas while increasing efficiency through advanced technologies. Aselsan is actively integrating artificial intelligence into its procedures and products, while exploring emerging technologies including quantum computing and AI-based defense models.

Aselsan’s Steel Dome project represents more than just an air defense system it embodies Turkiye’s broader strategy for defense independence and technological leadership. With strong government backing, innovative technologies, and ambitious international expansion plans, the Steel Dome positions Turkiye as a significant player in the global defense industry while addressing critical national security needs through advanced, multi-layered protection capabilities.

Join us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok for real-time coverage of defense events worldwide.