Turkish defence electronics powerhouse Aselsan has taken another stride in its African expansion by setting up a dedicated office in Nigeria, capitalising on over a decade of established operations in South Africa.
This move, formalised through business incorporation in June 2025, positions the company to deepen ties with West African militaries amid rising demand for advanced systems in the region. With a permanent base in Abuja, Aselsan aims to deliver tailored technologies that address local security needs, from countering insurgencies to enhancing air and naval capabilities. The initiative follows a pattern of strategic growth on the continent, where Aselsan leverages partnerships and technology transfers to foster self-reliant defence ecosystems.
Aselsan’s journey in Africa began prominently in South Africa, where it established a subsidiary in 2011 after acquiring a local engineering firm. This foothold has evolved into a hub for sub-Saharan activities, emphasising collaborations that go beyond mere sales to include joint development and manufacturing. A prime example is the ongoing work with Denel Aeronautics on modernizing the avionics of the Rooivalk attack helicopter, stemming from a memorandum of understanding announced at the 2022 Africa Aerospace and Defence exhibition. The partnership focuses on integrating cutting-edge systems to extend the platform’s service life and improve its performance in reconnaissance and strike roles.
Another collaborative effort involves the MEROPS multi-spectral extended range optical sight, a next-generation gimbal for air surveillance and targeting. Developed jointly with Denel, this system was showcased at the 2022 AAD event and is slated for integration into the Rooivalk as well as potentially the Seeker 400 unmanned aerial vehicle. Such projects demonstrate Aselsan’s commitment to technology transfer, enabling South African firms to produce components locally and adapt solutions to regional environments, including arid and coastal operations.
More recently, at the International Defence Industry Fair in 2025, Aselsan signed a memorandum of understanding with South Africa’s Pamodzi Group to manufacture two-way combat radios and related communication gear entirely within the country. This agreement builds on Aselsan’s long-standing presence, aiming to supply secure, interoperable devices that support tactical coordination in joint missions. By embedding production in South Africa, the company not only reduces import dependencies but also creates jobs and builds skills in electronics assembly and testing, aligning with broader goals of industrial development.
Building on this foundation, Aselsan’s entry into Nigeria represents a logical extension into West Africa, where security challenges like terrorism in the Sahel and piracy in the Gulf of Guinea demand robust technological responses. The Abuja office, supported by the incorporation facilitated by Firmus Advisory Nigeria, serves as a center for sales, maintenance, and training services. High-level engagements have paved the way; in October 2023, CEO Ahmet Akyol met with Nigerian defense leaders to explore enhancements in air defense and other areas. Discussions with Turkey’s ambassador have also covered training programs and the potential adoption of Aselsan’s air defense systems by the Nigerian Air Force.
Integration of Aselsan products into Nigerian platforms is already underway. The advanced ASELPOD targeting pods, designed for reconnaissance, surveillance, and precision strikes, have been observed on the Nigerian Air Force’s JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, improving their ability to acquire and engage targets in low-visibility conditions. Similarly, systems from Aselsan equip the T-129 ATAK helicopters in service with the NAF, providing enhanced avionics for close air support and anti-armor missions. Precision-guided munitions form a core part of the offerings, including the TOLUN GPS/INS-guided bomb for accurate strikes against fixed or moving targets, the GÖZDE 82 laser-guided munition for urban engagements, and the LGK 82 laser guidance kit that converts unguided bombs into smart weapons.
Aselsan’s participation in local events underscores its engagement strategy. At the 4th Africa Air Force Forum in Lagos in May 2025, held during the Nigerian Air Force’s 61st anniversary celebrations, the company displayed a wide array of solutions, from air surveillance radars to electronic warfare suites and guidance kits. The booth attracted defense officials and experts, sparking talks on how these technologies could bolster operations in Nigeria’s diverse terrains, including dense forests and open savannas. Such forums provide platforms for demonstrating interoperability with existing fleets and exploring joint ventures with Nigerian firms.
Aselsan’s broad portfolio spans multiple domains, making it a versatile partner for African forces. In air defense, systems like radars and electro-optical sensors detect threats at extended ranges, while electronic warfare tools jam adversary communications and protect assets from guided missiles. Tactical radios ensure secure voice and data links in the field, and guided munitions offer cost-effective precision without relying on expensive platforms. The company’s reach extends underwater with sonar systems and into space with satellite communication components, though its African focus remains on land, air, and naval applications.
This expansion occurs against a backdrop of strong corporate performance. In 2024, Aselsan achieved record export contracts exceeding $1 billion, with direct exports doubling to $217 million and indirect exports via platforms adding $291 million for a total of $508 million. Revenues climbed to $3.2 billion, a 13 percent rise from the prior year, fueled by $6.5 billion in new contracts, including $1 billion internationally. The firm introduced 29 new defense systems, reinforcing its innovation drive. Globally, Aselsan ranks 18th among defense companies by market capitalization and ninth in Europe as of May 2025.
Beyond South Africa and Nigeria, Aselsan pursues opportunities across the continent and elsewhere. A recent high-level visit from Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to Aselsan’s facilities in Ankara on August 7, 2025, highlighted potential collaborations in defense electronics. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has emphasized growing ties with Africa, including security cooperation. In 2025, the company opened a regional office in Oman to support Middle Eastern partners, while maintaining operations in South Asia and Central Asia.
For African nations facing escalating threats, Aselsan’s approach offers a pathway to modernize forces through reliable, adaptable technologies. By prioritizing local partnerships and technology sharing, the company helps build resilient capabilities that reduce external vulnerabilities. As conflicts evolve with asymmetric warfare and cyber elements, access to such systems could prove vital in maintaining operational edges. With its Nigerian office now operational, Aselsan is well-placed to contribute to regional stability while advancing its global ambitions.
