Turkish defense firm Aselsan has secured a $616-million investment to develop advanced equipment for Turkey’s “Steel Dome” air defense system, a cornerstone of Ankara’s national security.
With funding from the Turkish Ministry of Industry and Technology, the company will enhance radar, sensor, smart munition, and air defense technologies.
The initiative includes new research and development facilities, strengthening Aselsan’s export capacity and global competitiveness in the defense sector.
Turkey’s Steel Dome System
In recent years, Ankara has decreased its dependence on defense imports and expanded domestic production.
In August 2023, Turkey unveiled plans to develop Steel Dome, a “security umbrella” to safeguard the country’s airspace.
The Steel Dome program will integrate Turkey’s air defense systems, sensors, and weapons into a unified, multi-layered defense network, similar to Israel’s Iron Dome.
Led by Turkish firms Aselsan, Roketsan, and MKE, along with the TÜBİTAK SAGE research institute, the project will also incorporate artificial intelligence for enhanced capabilities.
Boosting Air Defense
In recent years, Aselsan has developed various systems to bolster Ankara’s air defense capabilities.
Last month, the Turkish firm completed the first live-fire test of the Goksur point defense missile system, designed to detect ski-skimming anti-ship missiles, cruise missiles, aircraft, and drones.
In 2024, the company delivered the ALP-300G Portable Early Warning Radar System to the Turkish Armed Forces.
The system enhances aerial reconnaissance, border surveillance, fire control, and weapon detection.
