Turkish Defence Concept Change With New Domestic Air Defense Systems

Aselsan, Turkiye’s leading defense electronics firm, made headlines at the International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF) with the unveiling of new land and naval defense systems. These innovations are part of the company’s strategic focus on both meeting domestic security needs, particularly through the Steel Dome air defense project, and expanding aggressively into international defense markets.

Strategic Focus: Steel Dome Initiative

The Steel Dome project is Aselsan’s flagship multi-layered air defense program, loosely inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome. It’s designed not only for Turkish defense but also for NATO allies, European countries, Gulf states, and parts of Asia. CEO Ahmet Akyol emphasized its purpose as a deterrent system aimed at preventing conflicts.

Cutting-Edge Technologies Unveiled at IDEF

Several new technologies were revealed at IDEF as part of Steel Dome, including:

• KORAL 200 mobile electronic warfare radar

• TURAN mobile communication brigade system

• EJDERHA high-power electromagnetic anti-drone system

• GÜRZ unmanned air defense unit

• GÖKSUR vertical launch system (naval)

• CENK 4D AESA radar

Government Support and Production Growth

In March, Turkey’s Ministry of Industry and Technology committed $616 million to build new Aselsan facilities, many supporting Steel Dome production. Akyol stated that Aselsan has doubled the number of units delivered in 2025 compared to previous years. However, he clarified the project doesn’t have a fixed end date, as the evolving threat environment requires continuous innovation.

Expanding Global Partnerships and Exports

Akyol confirmed strong interest from Gulf countries and Eastern Europe, driven by recent conflicts. Steel Dome may be tailor-made for different terrains—land or maritime—and offered via joint ventures and co-investments. Aselsan is open to co-production and co-design, especially with Gulf states.

Future Outlook: AI, Quantum Tech, and Global Expansion

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Aselsan is transforming from a project-based to a product-based company. The firm has embraced AI across development and aims for double-digit growth across all areas. With a $20B+ market cap and $15B+ order backlog, Aselsan targets:

• Top 30 global defense company status by 2030

• 50% of revenue from international markets

• Expansion into quantum technologies and AI-based solutions