ASELSAN introduced a new suite of advanced electronic warfare (EW) and counter-unmanned aerial vehicle (C-UAV) systems on the second day of the SAHA 2026 International Defence, Aerospace and Space Industry Exhibition in Istanbul. The launch highlights the company’s growing capability to deliver integrated, multi-domain solutions aimed at strengthening modern air defense architectures, particularly Türkiye’s Steel Dome concept.
The unveiling reflects an evolving operational environment where electromagnetic dominance and counter-drone capabilities are becoming central to battlefield success. ASELSAN’s latest systems are designed to address increasingly complex threats across both the electromagnetic spectrum and physical combat domains.
Next-Generation Electronic Warfare Systems
In the electronic warfare domain, ASELSAN presented upgraded versions of KORAL, ILGAR, and EJDERHA systems, each designed to enhance control over the electromagnetic spectrum.
The KORAL AD Air Defense Electronic Warfare System stands out as a mobile, land-based platform integrating Electronic Support (ES) and Electronic Attack (EA) capabilities. It enables long-range detection, identification, and classification of hostile radar systems while deploying advanced jamming and deception techniques. With its Anti-Access/Area Denial (A2/AD) capability, KORAL AD plays a critical role in disrupting enemy air operations and reinforcing layered air defense systems.
Complementing this capability, the ILGAR Communication Electronic Warfare System is designed to target V/UHF and partially SHF communication systems. Featuring high radio-frequency output and reactive jamming, ILGAR can disrupt or deceive enemy communications, including advanced frequency-hopping networks. Its mobility and real-time operational flexibility provide significant advantages in dynamic battlefield conditions.
EJDERHA and Expansion into Counter-UAV Warfare
ASELSAN also introduced an enhanced version of the EJDERHA High-Power Microwave Weapon System, designed to neutralize mini and micro UAVs, particularly swarm formations. Using high-power electromagnetic waves, the system disables drones without traditional kinetic engagement.
With integrated radar, improved electro-optical systems, and increased automation, EJDERHA has evolved into a fully autonomous and stand-alone counter-UAV solution, marking a significant advancement in non-kinetic air defense technologies.
AI-Powered Drone Interception and Platform Protection
At the forefront of ASELSAN’s counter-UAV portfolio are the newly introduced GÖKALP and MİĞFER systems, addressing the rising threat of asymmetric drone warfare.
GÖKALP is an autonomous kinetic interception drone powered by artificial intelligence, capable of detecting, tracking, and destroying enemy UAVs such as FPVs and loitering munitions. Its drone-against-drone capability represents a cutting-edge approach to aerial defense.
Meanwhile, MİĞFER is a self-protection system integrated onto armored vehicles, designed to safeguard mobile platforms in combat zones. Equipped with dual smoothbore shotguns and specialized ammunition, it can autonomously detect and neutralize micro-drone threats within close range, enhancing survivability on the battlefield.
Directed Energy and Integrated Defense Capabilities
Further strengthening its counter-UAV ecosystem, ASELSAN unveiled the GÖKBERK 10kW Laser Weapon System. This directed energy solution is designed to neutralize close-range aerial threats with high precision and efficiency. Suitable for protecting critical infrastructure, military bases, and mobile platforms, the system demonstrates ASELSAN’s investment in next-generation air defense technologies.
Strategic Vision and Industry Impact
Commenting on the launch, Ahmet Akyol, President and CEO of ASELSAN, emphasized the importance of integrated solutions in modern warfare. He noted that combining electromagnetic dominance with physical countermeasures is essential to address evolving threats.
He further highlighted that the newly launched systems—ranging from radar jamming and communication disruption to AI-enabled drone interception and laser-based defense—collectively enhance the effectiveness of Türkiye’s Steel Dome architecture.
ASELSAN’s Expanding Global Role
Founded in 1975, ASELSAN continues to strengthen its position as a global defense technology provider. With expertise in radar, electronic warfare, electro-optics, and communication systems, the company exports its solutions to over 90 countries and maintains a presence in 25 markets.
The systems unveiled at SAHA 2026 reflect ASELSAN’s long-term strategy to develop integrated, future-ready solutions capable of addressing both conventional and emerging security challenges in multi-domain operations.
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