Aselsan, a leading Turkish defense electronics company, showcased its vision for the future of warfare at the Saha Expo 2026 in Istanbul. The company is pushing for advancements in autonomous systems, sophisticated air defense, and integrated strike networks, aiming to solidify its status as a major domestic integrator while enhancing its global market presence.
Innovative Autonomous Naval Systems
During the event, Aselsan’s CEO, Ahmet Akyol, unveiled new strategic offerings designed for modern attritional warfare. Highlighting innovations in the maritime sector, Aselsan introduced two autonomous naval strike systems engineered for swarming operations and low observability. These systems emphasize high-volume production to meet contemporary military demands.
One of the standout products was the Tufan Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV), an agile autonomous craft capable of executing offensive missions alongside intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) tasks. Akyol referred to the Tufan as the company’s new-generation “surface kamikaze vehicle,” building upon its prior designs like the Marlin and Albatros USVs.
Another major unveiling was the Kılıç family of unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), characterized as “kamikaze UUVs.” Akyol detailed the two variants, Kılıç 10 and Kılıç 200, which are optimized for long-range, low-signature operations. These swarm-capable vehicles carry lightweight torpedo-class warheads and can operate autonomously or through satellite links, making them a formidable challenge for opponents. “Kılıç is quite difficult to defend against,” Akyol noted, emphasizing their stealth and operational effectiveness.
Layered Air Defense Solutions
Aselsan also featured its defense capabilities, showcasing a layered mix of air defense systems, electronic warfare, and counter-drone technology, all part of Turkey’s evolving “Steel Dome” air defense initiative. Akyol highlighted the introduction of Koral AD, a novel electronic warfare system specifically designed for long-range radar electronic attacks. This system aims to effectively detect, deceive, and jam hostile aircraft’s radar systems, significantly complicating the enemy’s operational capabilities.
Additionally, Aselsan unveiled an updated version of the Ilgar electronic warfare system, which aims to disrupt communications between combat aircraft and ground control. Akyol explained, “It makes it very difficult for enemy aircraft to execute an attack… blinding enemy radars and saturating them with false targets.” This innovation underscores the company’s dedication to enhancing defensive operations through cutting-edge technology.
Focus on Precision Strike Systems
In light of recent global conflicts, including the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the significance of rapid production of precision strike systems has become increasingly apparent. Akyol asserted that many systems introduced at Saha Expo 2026 were engineered around a commercial-component philosophy rather than the traditional high-cost boutique defense approach. He confidently stated, “Everything we have talked about today could realistically be in inventory by 2027.”
Looking ahead, Aselsan aims to boost its export revenues from the current 25% to 40% by 2030, showcasing its strategic commitment to becoming a dominant player on the global defense stage. The innovations presented at this exhibition reflect not only the company’s response to current military needs but also its vision for a more integrated and technologically advanced future in defense systems.