Qualified at the same time as the ‘Eurasian Meeting’ since 2009 - when it started to be organized in lstanbul and was considered to be one of the top five worldwide Defence Industry Fairs and as the greatest Defence Industry Fair of the Eurasia region, IDEF has been gathering local and foreign Defence Industry professionals under a single roof. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Treasury and Finance, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Ministry of Industry and Technology, Ministry of Customs and Trade, Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Turkish Armed Forces General Staff, Land Forces Command, Naval Forces Command, Air Forces Command, Presidency of Defence Industries (SSB), Gendarmerie General Command, Governorship of Istanbul, General Directorate of Security, Coast Guard Command, Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB), Small and Medium Enterprises Development Organization (KOSGEB) and the Defence and Aerospace Industry Manufacturers Association (SASAD) were among the institutions supporting IDEF’ 19 this year, which was held under the auspices of the Presidency for the second time.

According to the data provided by TÜYAP the company that organized the event, 587 members of 151 delegations from 70 countries and 3 international organizations attended the 14th International Defence Industry Fair IDEF’ 19, which is a crucial opportunity in terms of the exhibition of high technology products in the world and development of cooperation facilities between local and foreign participants. 15 Ministers, 13 Chiefs of General Staff, 4 Deputy Chiefs of General Staff, 1 Land Forces Commander, 2 Naval Forces Commanders, 3 Air Forces Commanders, 2 General Directors of Security, 4 Coast Guard Commanders, 15 Deputy Ministers, 13 Undersecretaries and equivalents were among the delegation members in charge of the Defence procurement of the countries. Whereas, at IDEF’ 17, from 67 countries and 2 international organizations a total of 637 delegation members of 133 delegations composed of one President [Ernest Bai KOROMA, the President of the Sierra Leone - a West African country], 26 Ministers, 17 Deputy Ministers, 6 Chiefs of General Staff, 5 Deputy Chiefs of General Staff, 10 Force Commanders and 14 Undersecretaries who are in charge of the procurement of their countries’ defence needs attended. Over 90 delegations from over 60 countries were invited to IDEF’ 19 by the SSB.

The event was launched on Tuesday, 30 April 2019 with the participation of President Recep Tayyip ERDOĞAN, Vice President of Turkey Fuat OKTAY, Minister of the Interior Süleyman SOYLU, Minister of National Defence Hulusi AKAR, Minister of Industry and Technology Mustafa VARANK, President of the Defence Industries Prof. İsmail DEMİR and many foreign representatives, and a total of 1,061 companies/company representatives composed of 481 local and 580 foreign companies from 53 countries attended according to the data provided by TÜYAP.

From 50 countries, 503 foreign and 317 local, a total of 820 companies and company representatives attended IDEF’ 17. Followed by local and foreign 394 press members from 26 countries, IDEF’ 19 Fair was visited by a total of 76,010 people composed of 71,082 local residents and 4,928 foreigners. Delegations, personnel from the Ministry of National Defence, Ministry of the Interior and other relevant institutions/associations in addition to employees of the Defence industry and security companies as well as academicians and university students were among the visitors. The IDEF’ 17 Fair was visited by a total of 65,782 people from 116 countries and 5,028 people out of the total visitors were foreigners and the remaining 60,754 were locals.

At the IDEF’ 19 Fair which is an international specialized fair in the areas of the Defence industry and military aviation, interview offices were available to 29 authorities from the Ministry of National Defence, Turkish Armed Forces General Staff, Service Commands, Presidency of Defence Industries, Gendarmerie General Command, General Directorate of Security and the Coast Guard Command. In line with the data provided by TÜYAP, nearly 2,700 (79%) out of 4,026 planned interview/stand visits by the interview office authorities, delegations and participant companies were realized. At IDEF ‘17, interview offices for 28 authorities from the Turkish Armed Forces General Staff, Ministry of National Defence, Service Commands, Gendarmerie General Command, Directorate General of Security (EGM) and Coast Guard Command (SGK) were available and 83% of the planned interview/stand visits by the interview office authorities, delegations and participating companies were realized. 

Moreover, at the Fair, at the stands launched by the departments of the Ministry of National Defence and Ministry of Interior, the weapons and equipment in the inventory of the Turkish Armed Forces and Law Enforcement Offices were displayed, 7 surface platforms of Turkish Naval Forces Command (TNFC) and Coast Guard Command were opened to visitors at the West Istanbul Marina in Yakuplu, Beylikdüzü. Throughout the Fair, over 20 country delegations visited the Marina and gathered information from the officers on the displayed naval platforms. On the other hand, at IDEF’ 17, 8 naval platforms and systems built at civilian and military shipyards in Turkey and that are within the inventory of the TNFC and the Turkish Coast Guard were either displayed as anchored off shore or exhibited statically at the pier at the Bay of Küçükçekmece.

100 signing ceremonies and 9 meetings/launching meetings were held during the Fair. The Ministry of National Defence’s activities were accomplished on the second day of the Fair and on the third day the Ministry of the Interior’s Promotion Day was held. At the Suppliers’ Zone allocated within the Fair area, representatives of the Supply/Procurement/R&D departments of major companies and small scaled manufacturers were gathered on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th days of the Fair creating an environment for the development of cooperation opportunities. Four panels and eight presentations on various contemporary issues were accomplished on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th days of the Fair as well. Furthermore, a Career Day was realized on the 4th day of the Fair enabling contact between university students and the staff from human resources departments of the participant companies.  

The opening ceremony of the 14th International Defence Industry Fair, IDEF’ 19 was honored by the President of the Republic of Turkey Recep Tayyip ERDOĞAN and accompanied by the delegations and the Ministers officially invited to the Fair from the foreign countries, the President led the ribbon cutting ceremony. Following the opening ceremony, President ERDOĞAN visited the stands of certain countries with the accompanying representatives and gathered information on the displayed products.

The next Fair, IDEF’ 21 International Defence Industry Fair is expected to be launched again in lstanbul in April 2021.

Our Comments on the IDEF’ 19 Fair

Covering all industrial branches either directly or indirectly related with the Defence Industry, IDEF is a critical promotion center and an international market both for our country and other participating countries and Defence industry companies.

The IDEF’ 19 Fair is a crucial platform where the small and medium sized enterprises as well as the major companies contributing to the Defence industry with their products and services seize the opportunity to introduce their facilities and capabilities to the procurement committees of Turkey and the world. Just like the previous years’ fairs, Aselsan and Turkish Aerospace (TUSAS) had the largest participation to IDEF’ 19 and both companies displayed many products and platforms at both indoor and outdoor exhibition areas. On the other hand, Roketsan broadened its participation this year and the company’s exhibition of a few new products, which have not been introduced to the public drew attention. ATMACA Surface - to - Surface Guided Missile developed for the TNFC was among the products introduced at IDEF’ 19 at Roketsan’s stand for the first time. The serial production contract regarding the product was signed in November 2018.

Despite the fact that international participation in the Fair seemed to considerably increase according to the figures and compared with the previous fairs, due to the political atmosphere and the political tension arising from F-35/S-400, companies from the U.S. and Europe such as Boeing and BAE Systems did not attend the event, while certain companies displayed a low level of presence. After the second day of the Fair, particularly U.S. companies almost emptied their stands. The rumor had it that Lockheed Martin decided to attend the Fair at the very last minute and even the poster of the F-35 Lighting II Aircraft was not displayed at the company’s stand. On the other hand, the representatives from European companies wishing to take part in the ongoing indigenous development projects in Turkey seized the crucial opportunity to conduct negotiations towards building cooperation with the Turkish authorities and potential partners at the IDEF ’19. It has been interesting to see that a critical part of the representatives within the visiting delegations were from the African, Middle Eastern and Asian countries that are also Turkey’s target markets regarding Defence industry exports.

Many companies, mostly the main contractors put forward their proposals regarding products and projects towards the projects that were not launched and potential requirements that may come up on the agenda in the future, instead of the products and solutions geared towards the existing contracts and placed orders. This has been another interesting development as part of the fair. With such an approach, the companies, especially the major companies that are also main contractors have put forth an effort to create a demand towards new local orders/contracts and trigger the procurement process in a sense.

According to the Performance Report of the Year 2018 prepared by the Defence and Aerospace Industry Manufacturers Association (SASAD) the total employment of the Turkish Defence and Aerospace Sector was 67,239 people (44,740 in 2017). This industry achieved a turnover of nearly US$ 8,761 Billion, imports of US$ 2,449 Billion (approximately 36% of the turnover) and almost US$ 2,189 Billion in exports in 2018. It is useful to underline that Turkish Technic and ASFAT data has been included in the data of 2018 for the first time, unlike previous years. According to the data provided by the Turkish Exporters’ Assembly (TİM), the Turkish Defence and Aerospace Sector realized exports of US$ 1,282 Billion between 1 January 2019 and 30 June 2019, in other words in the first six months of the year. Though this figure represents an increase of 41,4% (US$ 907 Million) compared with the same period of 2017, it remained below the target of US$ 1,5 Billion. The exports of Turkish Defence and Aerospace Sector is expected to reach US$ 3 Billion by the end of 2019. The U.S. took the lion’s share of the aforementioned exports with the export of US$ 404 Million containing air platform airframe and engine parts and components sales mostly conducted under off-set commitments. Germany remained on the third rank with US$ 122,4 Million after Qatar (US$ 134,6 Million). Therefore, as it failed to achieve the targeted figures in terms of exports, the Turkish Defence and Aerospace Sector is still dependent on the potential orders from the internal market and it even made a considerable leap in export revenues with particularly the indigenous product/platform sales in the recent period, and the greatest part of the Defence industry is still being actualized under off-set commitments. On the other hand, the level of the foreign dependency observed in the critical sub-systems and components within the indigenous products developed by domestic companies, mostly the power packs and ballistic armors, should not be underrated. In line with the data of 2017, merely US$ 500 Million of the Turkish Defence and Aerospace Sector’s exports valued at US$ 1,7 Billion was achieved through the sale of indigenous products and the remaining portion was actualized with the revenue collected with the parts sold as part of off-set commitments. Indigenization activities continue in order to further increase the domestic participation ratio within the indigenous products. Critical progress has been achieved within the scope of the development of an indigenous power pack and for instance the diesel engine manufactured by Tümosan will be used in the SPTWAP (Special Purpose Tactical Wheeled Armored Platforms) to be produced by FNSS. Moreover, a crucial step was taken towards the local production of the armor steel used in the tactical wheeled armored vehicles. According to the information received, the production of indigenous armor steel with an annual capacity of 13,000 tons will be launched at the new factory/facility named as MİLUX OY, which will start its activities in Manisa as part of Erdemir as of July 2019. The production capacity is planned to be increased to 20,000 tons annually after the year 2020. The raw material of the flat steel to be manufactured and processed at MİLUX OY facilities will be supplied from Erdemir and the production technology will be transferred from the MİLUX Company purchased from Finland by OYAK. The initial armor steel sheet metal samples were displayed played at the company’s stand during IDEF’ 19.

A major increase was seen in the participation of sub-system, parts and components manufacturers SMEs in the Fair and the reduction of the stand costs/m2 fees down to affordable levels by the cooperation of the SSB - TSKGV played an essential role in this increase. This increase seen in the participation of SME companies is being evaluated as a positive indicator in terms of the sustainability and horizontal and vertical extension of the sector. Then again, the interesting fact in the participation of the SMEs is that due to the focus of companies in certain activity areas the sub industry and supplier eco system in certain critical areas of technology with high foreign dependency failed to mature to a sufficient level. For instance, the number of SMEs active in areas of structural design, composite material, machining has been much more common than the number of SMEs active in areas such as electronics, software and sensors. This picture indicates that the sub industry and supplier eco system towards the structural parts of land vehicles, ship building and air platforms have reached a certain level of maturity and competence while the planned level of the eco system for the sub industry and suppliers regarding electromagnetic and electro-optical sensors, micro-electronics and advanced material technologies areas failed to be achieved. In a way, this non-proportional distribution signals that the foreign dependency observed in the critical sub-systems and components utilized in indigenous products developed by local companies could not be decreased to the desired levels, and we assess this as a problem that needs to be considered.

President of Defence Industries İsmail DEMİR’s Assessments on the Fair 

Stating that IDEF’ 19 was conducted with a very broad participation DEMİR said that at the fair, which was executed with the participation of over a thousand companies from over 60 countries, the distribution of local and foreign participation was almost equal. Telling that a total of 1,061 companies with 153 delegations from 71 countries attended the Fair and that they held 49 high-level President of the Defence Industries (SSB) Prof. İsmail DEMİR evaluated IDEF’ 19 and answered questions at the press meeting held on the last day of the Fair, 3 May 2019.

Delegation and bilateral cooperation negotiations as the Presidency, DEMİR added that 75 signing ceremonies in forms of signing Good Will Agreements, Memorandums of Understanding and Cooperation Agreements were executed.

DEMİR expressed that in terms of exports, a Medium Weight Tank Serial Production Contract between the Turkish Defence Industry company FNSS and Indonesian PT Pindad company, a contract on the procurement of thermal cameras for the SKIFT Anti - Tank Missile System between Aselsan and Ukrainian company STE, software based military type radio procurement contract for fulfilling the communication needs of the Ukrainian Armed Forces between Aselsan and STE and a Cooperation Agreement on Defence Industry between Republic of Turkey and Republic of Guinea were signed.

Stating that this event constituted the defence industry’s display in Turkey, DEMİR continued: “The participants and delegations observed the impressive level that Turkey has reached and spoke very highly of our achievements. Especially the countries that do not know Turkey really well and the people who did not attend the Fair before underlined their astonishment at what they saw. And this once again proved that we need to exert more effort regarding the promotion of our country and our Defence industry, because our existing capabilities may not be known very well. Such a perception is created on the basis of the fact that our country has not been a Defence industry exporter throughout history, but everyone can see now that this fact has changed, and Turkey is taking part in this area as a player as well”.

DEMİR underlined the limited participation of the major foreign companies and said, “My comment regarding this is as follows: They either did not need to make their presence felt with the understanding that they would not be able to sell their goods easily to Turkey anymore or they might have thought that our products would perhaps out shine theirs in this environment”.

Mentioning that a total of 130 activities were conducted together with the product and project introductions throughout the Fair, President of the SSB DEMİR pointed out the importance of this figure. DEMİR noted that the activities on the promotion of the Defence industry and on exports will continue.

Responding to questions on the popular products of the Fair, DEMİR stated that the new products regarding unmanned air vehicles and helicopter platforms, electromagnetic cannons, various laser capabilities, the variety of land vehicles, armor steel, and several engine and power pack solutions stood out. Noting that they observed products types regarding unmanned land vehicles, DEMİR stated that cyber security products, types of software, ÖZGÜR Project, digital cockpit of HüRKuŞ, radar, missile, ammunition and light weight weapons were followed with attention as well.

When reminded of the comments of the U.S. on Turkey’s procurement of S-400s, President of the SSB stated that Turkey had made its decision and acted accordingly. Telling that they were ready to hear about the logical and technical arguments claiming that F-35 and S-400 could not remain together and adopt the required measures in case there were any risks, DEMİR said, “They did not want to make even a single negotiation on this subject or any studies to this end so far. We are expressing that we took the measures required for the functioning of these systems in a way compatible with Turkey and our own software and identification for friend or foe systems. I do not know what to think if this point fails to be understood. We now believe that they do not wish to understand this fact. If they form a technical committee then please let them show us the risks and dangers. They do not know anything about the measures we took, and they do not tell us what the danger is”.

DEMİR’s answer to a question on how the reports and achievements of the sector looked was as follows: “When a comparison is made with the previous Fairs, there is an obvious improvement. There is an increase especially in the SME level participation. We collaborated very closely with the TSKGV who undertook the logistical organization of the Fair in order to reduce the costs regarding the participation of the SMEs to this event. The participation of the SMEs to this Fair is quite critical in terms of making their presence known. At this point, we were only concerned if we neglected or ignored any SMEs waiting for our support. We are really very sensitive about this. We believe that Turkey has to display all its capabilities both in this environment and in future gatherings. Some activities may be repetitive, but we do not have any time or money to waste. Therefore, a structure that creates synergy is required. To this end, we wish to implement more initiatives regarding regulating the sector. We will be following the sector more closely.”

President of the SSB, DEMİR’s expectations from IDEF’ 21 are as follows: “While we wish IDEF’ 21 to be more attractive and have a broader participation, we also expect it to become an environment where the performance of the products we are now able to observe to a certain extent is fully demonstrated. Especially, being more open in terms of international participation is critical for us in terms of increasing the number of delegations and participants. We wish to have a much more attractive IDEF ‘21 in terms of venues, logistical facilities and additional activities”.

News from the Companies at IDEF’ 19  

Aselsan

As in the previous Fairs, Aselsan was the greatest participant at IDEF this year. Presently conducting exports to 65 countries and compared with the same period last year increasing its sales revenues by 46,4% and its profit by 79,1% by achieving a sales revenue of TL 2 Billion in the first quarter of 2019, Aselsan hosted visitors with the most attention-grabbing stand at IDEF this year. Company’s stand contained Aselsan’s vast range of products and its solutions varying from renewable energy to communication as well as its brand-new products introduced for the first time. Aselsan also displayed the FIRAT-M60T, RAKAS and MUKAS, MİLKAR-4 HF-ET System, new generation Radar Electronic Attack (REDET), SERHAT Counter Mortar Radar installed over COBRA II Tactical Wheeled Armored Vehicle, KALKAN II ADR and the modernized 35mm Oerlik on GDF-003 towed guns in the outdoor exhibition area. 

Equipped with new and various introduction capabilities by using up to date technologies and hosting over 300 products together with brand new solutions, Aselsan’s stand also hosted over 50 high level foreign committees including Chiefs of General Staff, Ministers of Defence and Force Commanders throughout the Fair, in addition to many visitors.

Moreover, Aselsan signed a series of critical agreements during IDEF’ 19. The most attention-grabbing ones were the contract with a total value of EUR 840,986.250 Million signed under the ALTAY MBT Serial Production Project and the contract on the Low Altitude Radar System Project valued at TL 450 Million and signed as part of the demands of the Turkish Air Forces Command (TurAF).

Within the scope of the contract on the ALTAY MBT Serial Production Project valued at EUR 3.5 Billion signed with the Main Contractor BMC, Aselsan will be delivering the following, noted below to ALTAY T1 (40 tanks) and ALTAY T2 (210 tanks) tanks and the prototype of ALTAY T3. 

Tank Fire Control System

Tank Command Control Communication and Information System

Remote Controlled Weapon System 

AKKOR Active Protection System

Tank Driver Vision System

Tank Laser Warning System

Combat Area Recognition and Identification (IFF) System 

Close - Range Surveillance System

In line with the contract, the company will also be conducting the delivery of the products required for the training tools to be formed for the user/maintenance training of the aforementioned systems.

The overall/regional air and missile Defence of Turkish sovereign airspace (Turkish Air Forces has to see and know 300ft and over [up to infinite space] and establish the acquisition, identification, tracking and destruction capabilities in an ideal duration of 1.5 minutes or within maximum 5 minutes) and the operation field is being executed under the guidance and overall coordination of the TurAF. The real time air picture of Turkish sovereign airspace is composed by over 30 early warning radar sensors in fixed and transportable configurations organized under the Air Control Group Command, 7 Control and Reporting Centers/Posts (CRC/CRP), 4 E-E7T Airborne Early Warning and Control [AEW&C] Aircraft regarded as force multipliers operating under the auspices of Airborne Warning and Control Group Command [131st Fleet Command], ground based air Defence weapon systems of the 15th Missile Base Command [with Nike Hercules and HAWK XXI Systems. They will be supported with the S-400 Triumph Systems the deliveries of which started in July] and the Tactical Data Link Systems that enable the command and control between these systems. The Low Altitude Radar (LAR) System Project was launched in order to cover the low altitude and medium/long range areas that cannot be covered by the Early Warning Radars and the areas that cannot be covered during the breakdown of the Early Warning Radars in the air surveillance picture. To this end, under the contract for the LAR System Project signed between the SSB and Aselsan during the IDEF Fair, the procurement of 5 Low Altitude Radar Systems was determined. On account of the technology it owns, Aselsan will be completing the Project within only 3 years and the first LAR System in a mobile structure (will be carried over a tactical vehicle with 8 wheels) with an AESA type antenna that will function at the S-Band frequency (the same frequency band with EIRS) will be delivered to the TurAF in 2022. According to the information we received, the delivery of the remaining radars is planned to be accomplished at intervals of 6-8 months. 

During the Fair, Aselsan also launched the Close-In Weapon System for the GÖKDENİZ Naval Platforms (CIWS), which used to be known as KORKUT-D, one of the latest products of the company’s know-how and experience in the area of air defence.  

The GÖKDENİZ CIWS System was designed and manufactured by the cooperation between TÜBİTAK - SAGE and MKEK (Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation) and Aselsan was the Main Contractor of the project. GÖKDENİZ CIWS System was equipped with Airburst Munition (ParM/ATOM) programmed with ‘35mm Mod 95 Airburst Munition’ code by MKEK. The system will enable the most effective air defence against anti-ship guided missiles, Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAV), Aircrafts and Helicopters. It will be efficient against close asymmetrical surface naval threats as well. GÖKDENİZ will be able to conduct target acquisition, identification, tracking and destruction fully autonomously. The 3-Dimensional Search Radar, Fire Control Radar and E/O sensors within the system will enable the efficient utilization of GÖKDENİZ at night and under adverse  weather conditions. The system could be operated under the control of an operator and it is also able to fulfil its tasks fully automatically, without requiring the intervention of an operator. With the help of the Automatic Linkless Ammunition Feed Mechanism within the system, munition in two different types could be fed to the system and switching between munition types is possible. GÖKDENİZ demonstrated its capabilities at the ballistic tests conducted in May 2018 with the support of the SSB and the TNFC; a high-speed target aircraft simulating a guided missile attack was fired and crashed during this test.

Utilizing the matured sub-systems of the KORKUT Self Propelled Air Defence Gun System, the serial production deliveries to Turkish Land Forces of which started in March 2019 (3 Weapon System Vehicles and 1 Command Control Vehicle), GÖKDENİZ was adopted to sea conditions during the development process and was brought to a size capable of being installed within the I Class Frigates. Different from KORKUT-D, the barrel of the gun is stabilized at the back of the turret and the swept area was narrowed. The same weapon and ammunition (MKEK/ÇANSAŞ product 35mm KDC-02 automatic gun) is being used by KORKUT and GÖKDENİZ. A total of 200 ammunitions could be carried in the the ammunition boxes at the right and left sides of the front of the GÖKDENİZ CIWS turret. According to the information we received, on account of the smart ammunition utilization, GÖKDENİZ could be effective at lower ammunition different from the other CIWS systems such as the rapid shot Phalanx and Goalkeeper CIWS. It has been mentioned that 200 missiles are sufficient for an average of 5-6 engagements including the supersonic anti-ship guided missile types. In case the ammunition in the boxes runs out, the ammunition feed is actualized simultaneously by two personnel from the lids at the sides. The ammunition could be fed to the turret again in less than a total of 10 minutes in the form of ammunition clips of five pieces. 

The indigenous electrical servo systems manufactured by Aselsan are being utilized in GÖKDENİZ. The top part is fully independent from the turret and it is stabilized. The turret is already stabilized. The Automatic Linkless Ammunition Feed System is similar with the one in the KORKUT System. In fact, it is the same sub-system but while KORKUT features a feeder mechanism under the armor without getting out of the vehicle, in GÖKDENİZ the missile feeder mechanism is designed in a way to feed over the turret from the top. The reason behind this is based on the requirement for not allowing penetration to the deck of the ship as not all ships have under-decks available for penetration. For example, the under-deck of the I Class Frigate does not allow penetration.

As all the sub-systems are placed within the turret and since power-related units are located under the turret, GÖKDENİZ CIWS could be easily installed to a surface platform as it also does not require any penetration to the under-body/under-deck. Expressed that it could be installed over the ship and availed directly to utilization, GÖKDENİZ CIWS is capable of operating fully autonomously according to the selected configuration with the MAR-D Search Radar over it as well. MAR-D is the same with the land version, yet there is an increase in the angles of its coverage area. After MAR-D accomplishes its target acquisition, the system tracks the anti-ship guided missiles targeting the ship. Then it utilizes the E/O camera and radar in a hybrid form, heads toward the target and processes the shooting decision. According to the information we gathered, GÖKDENİZ CIWS is integrated to ADVENT and GENESIS CMS, too. One of the two operator consoles on the system is designed in the structure of a remote console integrated to the CMS, and the other is designed in order to be located at the selected region as the own weapon console of GÖKDENİZ. The full control of the system could be accomplished over both consoles. 

The data collected by the search radar over GÖKDENİZ could be utilized also for the other weapons over the ship. It is possible to transfer these data to the CMS. The tracking radar could also be used in order to direct another weapon. The system could receive engagement via other radars over the ship with the data provided by the CMS and head towards the target. It could fire the target displayed by the other E/O sensors over the ship. This capability constitutes the most critical feature of GÖKDENİZ compared with other CIWS systems. Moreover, GÖKDENİZ is capable of executing surface naval threat engagement via the radar and E/O radar both over the ship and over itself. In fact, the main reason behind the system’s being named as GÖKDENİZ (SKYSEA) is its capability of engagement to targets in the sky and at sea. 

Even though such capability does not exist in our country yet, the utilization of a single barrel, revolver type rotary feeder weapon system as the one used in the Millennium CIWS manufactured by Rheinmetall is possible in the GÖKDENİZ System. In this case, as the single barrel will cover less space, the volume of the turret will be decreased to a certain extent and the weight of the system will be reduced. Although, the presently utilized double barrel KDC-02 automatic gun has certain advantages. The twin gun is critical in terms of redundant operations, the firing continues with the single barrel when the gun is stuck. Another advantage is that the measures should be adopted, and active sensors should be used for the cooling of the drum in the rotary drum weapon systems referred as the revolver type, and this complicates the weapon in terms of operation and maintenance. Though the revolver type is a higher-level weapon as they have a relatively new design and new technology, as the single barrel is excessively heated when fired rapidly, a water-cooling system is required for the barrel. Therefore, from a technological perspective, though it has an older design compared with the single barrel, the revolver type rotary feeder weapon in the Millennium CIWS, the KDC-02 automatic guns proved themselves and they have quite significant advantages in terms of both maintenance echelon and logistics.

Within the scope of the Capability Demonstration activity, GÖKDENİZ CIWS was integrated to the TNFC training ship TCG Sokullu Mehmet Paşa (A-577) in 2018. The depression angle of -5 was sufficient as it was an on-board configuration at the KORKUT turret. But when it was installed over a ship, it was observed that the -5 degrees was not convenient for compensating the swaying of the ship. Therefore, the turret was placed over the ship in an inclined position. In line with the information we gathered, this layout configuration was only used for the tests over the TCG Sokullu Mehmet Paşa training ship and no such demand is in question for the time being. In its current form, the GÖKDENİZ CIWS turret is capable of descending and ascending to -15 and +85 degrees. At the ballistic tests carried out on May 4, 2018, two types of shooting - slow and fast targets - yet 3 types of targets were used. Two types of slow targets were shot and within this scope a target similar to the Harpoon Surface to Surface Guided Missile was shot as well. Over 6 drones were shot down during the shooting of the slow targets. The rapid target conducting sea-skimming simulation and approaching the ship under 50 feet (15,24m) with high speed was shot twice (the Banshee Jet 80 target aircraft manufactured by Qinetiq, with two turbojet engines with 40kg propulsion power over it and capable of executing attack scenarios at an altitude of 5m). According to the latest information we received, GÖKDENİZ is designed in a way to be effective against kamikaze drones conducting swarm attacks and supersonic anti-ship guided missiles similar to Brahmos. The design of the system is executed to fully enable efficiency against supersonic targets as well and both the target acquisition and tracking ranges of GÖKDENİZ is at the level that allows acquisition, tracking and shooting of the targets at the speed of Mach 3 and over. Analyses and simulations regarding this issue were conducted and striking probabilities were estimated. No problems occurred related to this subject. In line with the information we gathered, execution of additional ballistic tests in the near future with GÖKDENİZ CIWS is planned and also conducting ballistic tests against supersonic targets (if provided) is aimed. 

The total weight of the Close-In Weapon System for GÖKDENİZ Naval Platforms is expected to be around 8,5 tons including the ammunition and two operator consoles. We learned that Aselsan is currently conducting negotiations on the delivery of GÖKDENİZ for both I Class Frigates and the DİMDEG Fleet Replenishment Ship. By the way, the very first export of GÖKDENİZ was made to one of the Turkic Republics countries. According to the information we received, GÖKDENİZ will be utilized in a corvette type platform of the related country. 80% of GÖKDENİZ is presently composed of indigenous parts, the remaining 20% is not composed of critical foreign parts and they could be provided through multiple sources. As all the critical parts of GÖKDENİZ is fully indigenous, no export-related problems are expected.

One of the products that drew attention at the Aselsan stand was the AESA type F-16 Nose Radar displayed in scaled model section. As you will recall, in order to replace the AN/APG-68 radars (AN/APG-68[V]5 radar exists at Block 30 and 40s, [V]7 radar exists in Block-50, and [V]9 radar exists in Block 50+) in the TurAF inventory with the new generation radars, the F-16 AESA Nose Radar Development Project Phase - 1 Protocol was signed between the SSB and Aselsan in March 2019. Aselsan is presently continuing its activities within the scope of the aforementioned project. As of May 2019, no agreements were signed for the AESA radar to be utilized over the AKINCI UAV. At the first stage, the mechanically steered nose radar will be utilized over the UAV system and the utilization of the AESA type nose radar was planned for the second stage, which will be launched after 2022. 

The production of the first prototype of the F-16 Nose Radar is expected to take place in 2021. The radar is expected to become a finished product in 2023 and the TF-X Nose Radar is expected to be ready around 2025/2026. The utilization of the AESA Nose Radar manufactured by Aselsan is aimed in concern with the MMU Block-I Aircraft that will be launched to the service of the TurAF in 2028.

A scaled model of the Multi-Functional Phase Arrayed (ÇAFRAD) System to be utilized in TF-2020 Anti-Air Warfare Destroyers was displayed at Aselsan’s stand as well. As you may recall, the Technology Demonstration Prototype of ÇAFRAD manufactured as part of the Multi-Functional Phase Arrayed Radar (ÇAFRAD) Phase-1 Project, featuring the single-sided and scaled (what is implied with scaling is related with the number of internal modules contained rather the size of the antenna) versions of Multi-Functional Radar (ÇFR-1) with the AESA antenna technology and Illuminating Radar (AYR-1) and the IFF System with a static antenna capable of electronic scanning was integrated to the Topmast Class TCG Göksu Frigate with RIM-162B Block 1 Enhanced SeaSparrow Missile (ESSM) capability in November 2018 and the ballistic tests were conducted on December 11, 2018. Even if the size of the CFR-1 and AYR-1 radar panels used in the tests appeared to be the same size as the radar panels to be manufactured as part of the Serial Production Phase, the number of T/R modules inside them was less than required. Regarding this issue, a representative of Aselsan said, “In terms of performance, we are capable of observing the scaled version of the radar. For instance, if the performance of the 100 modules is this, we can estimate the performance of the 500-module version. This was a technology demonstration and it was also verified with the ballistic test. By the way, during the ballistic tests we did not decrease the range because we used the scaled version of the radar, the ESSM shot the target at the range it needed to shoot it.” 

Upon the successful completion of the tests, the ÇAFRAD Technology Demonstration Prototype was uninstalled and transferred to the campus of the Naval Academy and it was reinstalled and launched for test purposes there in the first quarter of 2019.

ÇAFRAD is a system composed of three different radars operating at different frequency bands, 12 radar antennas and IFF. The Multi-Functional Active Phase Arrayed [ÇAFRAD] System with digital beamforming capability contains Active Static Type IFF with the electronic scanned array structure, Active Phase Arrayed X-Band Multi-Functional Radar [ÇFR], Active Phase Arrayed X-Band Illuminating Radar [AYR] and S-Band Long Range Radar [UMR] antennas/sub-systems. The Long-Range Volume Search Radar [UMR] will have a new EİRS based [a follow-up of the EİRS] S-Band antenna. It was not clear whether the antenna would be utilized in the static type or in the rotary type and whether it would be placed at the mast of the ÇAFRAD’s integrated antenna or independently at the back of the ship. However, the UMR was utilized in the static type and it was located around the bridge on the scaled models of the TF-2000 Anti-Air Warfare Destroyer displayed at the stands of Aselsan and Naval Forces Command. 4 X-Band ÇFR antennas remained over the mast of the integrated antenna in the ÇAFRAD System over the TF-2000 model and a total of 8 antennas were located around the bridge. The relatively smaller of these antennas at the top part are the AYR antennas while the bigger ones at the bottom are long range S-Band UMR antennas. In line with the information we received, the ÇAFRAD System which will remain on the TF-2000 Anti-Air Warfare Destroyers will be in the similar structure with the configuration over the scaled models that are stated to have a 90% similarity with the final configuration. On the other hand, activities to assess the utilization of a scaled version of ÇAFRAD on I Class Frigates such as the EL/M-2248 MF-STAR AESA radar utilized on Israel’s SAAR-5 and SAAR-6 corvettes continue. 

The information plate over the TF-2000 Anti-Air Warfare Destroyer model read that 7 ships would be constructed and that the first ship would be delivered in 2027. Previously, the delivery of the first ship was planned to take place in 2024. We were informed that the aforementioned delay did not occur due to the ÇAFRAD System. The date of delivery was indicated as 2027 probably in accordance with the plans of the TNFC. An Aselsan representative underlined that the ÇAFRAD System was presently ready for serial production and added that the schedule of ÇAFRAD was not a determining factor in the delivery date of TF-2000. The Aselsan representative also said that the serial production would be launched after the finalization of the activities conducted with the Bilkent University on the production of GaN chips. 

At IDEF’ 19, Aselsan introduced the FERSAH Hull Mounted Anti-Submarine Warfare Sonar, which was ordered to be utilized in the BARBAROS Class Frigates in line with the contract signed in June 2018 with the Presidency of Defence Industries. Aselsan will be the Main Contractor of the development of the FERSAH for the frigate and corvette platforms to be newly built or modernized with the support of Armelsan (a sub-contractor agreement was signed between two companies in August 2018). FERSAH is a Hull Mounted Sonar System operating at the mid-frequency band either actively or passively and its primary task is fulfilling Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) requirements. In addition to ASW, Aselsan FERSAH features an avoidance mode against mine like objects. The system is composed five units: a Sonar Wet End containing a cylindrical transducer array, a Connection Unit, a Power Cabinet, a Processor Cabinet and an Operator Console. 

Within the scope of the contract signed as part of the Mid Life Update (MLU) of the Barbaros Class Frigates Project, Aselsan will be conducting the delivery of the FERSAH Sonar System on the 24th month (T0+24 months). The remaining deliveries are planned to be realized at periods of 6 months after the launch of the modernization of the ships. The FERSAH Sonar System will replace the AN/ASQ-56 Sonar System remaining on the Barbaros Class Frigates. The Barbaros Class Frigates will be equipped with GENESIS ADVENT CMS at the same time. An Armelsan representative with whom we had the chance to interview stated that the Aselsan/Armelsan pair would be revealing the prototype of the sonar on the 12th month and underlined that the Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) would be launched on the 18th month, adding that the FERSAH Sonar System may be replaced with the existing sonar systems since the FERSAH Sonar System operating at Mid-Frequency Band (1kHz-10kHz) utilizes the same sonar array with YAKAMOS-1. 

In active mode, the FERSAH Sonar System is capable of detecting, tracking and analyzing submarines and mine like objects, and in passive mode the system is able to detect, track and analyzes the submarines, torpedoes or vessels with passive noise. In the FERSAH, Aselsan uses the up-to-date algorithms it used in the previous projects. As you may recall, as a passive sonar system Aselsan previously developed the ASIST Intercept Sonar System still functioning on three Ay Class Submarines and the passive sonar algorithms of the HIZIR Torpedo Counter Measure System utilized on the ADA Class Corvettes. The more improved version of the aforementioned algorithms would be utilized in the FERSAH Sonar System. In the Active Mode, the algorithms developed as part of the MATES (Mine Detecting Sonar System) and TORK Projects will be updated and used in the FERSAH. 

Within the scope of the FIRAT-M60T Project launched for M60T AMT’s more active protection against ATGM (Anti-Tank Guided Missiles) threats and terrorist organizations and for adding new capabilities to the existing systems, the Main Contract with the value of EUR 109.245 million + TL 25 million was signed between the SSB and Aselsan on 11 May 2017, and the Amendment no 1 to the contract with the value of EUR 96.7 million + TL 25 million was signed on 24 July 2018. With the amendment, the total amount of the contract reached EUR 206 million + TL 50 million. In accordance with the amendment to the contract, the AKKOR PULAT Active Protection System (APS) will be installed to 40 tanks out of 169 tanks named as M60TM that were modernized as part of the FIRAT-M60T Project, and the Telescopic Periscope System (TEPES) will be installed to 73 of these tanks. Moreover, 90 40mm automatic grenade launchers were procured in 2018 to be used in the tanks. 

AKKOR PULAT APS is capable of physical destruction, it is able to simultaneously cope with multiple threats and it provides 360-degree protection capability. The system detects the guided anti-tank missiles directed towards the M60T AMT in the air with the help of the high technology radar it features and destroys them at an optimum distance before they hit the tank. Aselsan displayed the M60T AMT equipped with the AKKOR PULAT APS in the outdoor exhibition area during IDEF’ 19. 

According to the information on the product’s brochure, the AKKOR PULAT APS contains three critical sub-systems: The Control Panel, Power Distribution Unit and the Anti-Threat Module. A maximum 8 Anti-Threat Modules composed of a high technology product Triggering Radar and Anti-Threat Ammunition could be installed in every tank. However, we learned that recevied feedback from the Turkish Armed Forces following the operations in Syria, and as no Anti-Threat Module placement was planned over the turret, only 6 Anti-Threat Modules (2 on each of the sides, 1 on the front and 1 at the back) exist over the M60TM. The system can be switched on and off with the help of the Control Panel at the driver’s cab and the Anti-Threat Modules can be activated upon request only towards the direction of the threat while other Modules could be deactivated. When the module is activated, the Anti-Threat Ammunition over it in the form of a cylindrical stick emerges out of its socket and remains outside the hull at a distance of 30-40cm.The sensor of the Triggering Radar remains on the tip of the Anti-Threat Ammunition. The Triggering Radar has 180 degrees of angle visibility and is capable of detecting the approaching threat up to 50m and calculating its angle of approach. After the estimation of the optimum intercept point, the warhead right at the back of the radar is activated for interception. The small particles emerging at the explosion of the bomb scattering around in the shape of a ring due to the cylindrical form of the ammunition directly shoots the warhead of the ATGM that constitutes a threat. After the crash, either the warhead is disabled or the formation of the gel effect (at the HEAT type warhead) is prevented. As the explosive moves 35 degrees upwards after the explosion, it could prevent the ATGMs capable of vertical shooting to a certain extent hitting the turret even if it is installed to the AMT’s hull. In one of his remarks, the former Minister of Defence Nurettin CANİKLİ stated that interception up to 8-10 meters was possible with AKKOR PULAT while with AKKOR APS interceptions up to a distance of 100 meters of could be conducted. In the field tests executed with AKKOR PULAT APS, over 400 ballistic tests were conducted against various threats such as RPG, Kornet-E, Konkurs and TOW. 

With the help of the Telescopic Periscope System (TEPES) integrated to the M60TM AMT, secure surveillance and target acquisition capabilities at the defilade position are gained. On account of Aselsan’s TEPES vision system to be integrated to a total of 73 M60TM AMTs, superior target acquisition and surveillance capabilities with high precision are gained to the tanks, under all types of weather and geographical conditions. The capabilities of TEPES such as motion detection, target tracking, sectoral scanning, integrated operation with other systems (Laser Warning System, Remote Commanded Weapon System, etc.), acquisition of the target coordinates and video/ image recording will increase the survivability of the M60TM dramatically. The system capable of capturing thermal images and TV images via its E/O sensors is capable of conducting laser distance measuring up to 20 kilometers. TEPES could reach to a height of 2.5 meters with the telescopic elevation system (mast) over the M60TM turret and is capable of calculating the coordinates of the target detected through the INS integration and then submits them to the operator. 

Aselsan also covered the IIR and RF Seeker capabilities as part of the missile systems in its stand. Within this scope, while uncooled IIR seekers and detectors are being utilized in UMTAS, OMTAS and KARAOK (with a better resolution due to technological developments), IIR Seekers with cooling type detectors are being used by the HİSAR-A/O air Defence missiles due to the demand of snapshots at high speeds. The IIR detectors utilized in the UMTAS and OMTAS Missiles were developed locally, and the activities towards the indigenization of the IIR detectors imported for HİSAR Ground-to-Air Guided Missiles. A quite different technology is being used in the detectors employed by the KARAOK Missile and the indigenization of these imported detectors is planned as well. The representatives from Aselsan underlined that the development process was about to be completed in the HİSAR-A/O Project and stated that the preparations towards the Serial Production process scheduled to take place in 2020-2021 were ongoing. RF Seekers manufactured by Aselsan are being used in the TÜBİTAK-SAGE’s Medium Range BOZDOĞAN-BVR [Beyond Visual Range] Air-to-Air Missile and Roketsan’s ATMACA Ground-to-Ground Guided Missile as well. BOZDOĞAN-BVR carries Ku-Band solid state array RF antenna on mechanical gimbal seeker (in reflector structure) head. In line with an alteration of the contract, Aselsan is also developing an RF Seeker for the HİSAR Ground-to-Air Guided Missile and the first ballistic test with the new missile named HİSAR-RF as part of the urgent demands of the Forces is planned to be accomplished within less than a year. It is mentioned that the propulsion system of the HİSAR-A/O was maintained in the HİSAR-RF-RF while certain differences in terms of aerodynamics were made. Flat plate slot antennas and steerable gimbal mechanisms are being used in the HİSAR-RF, GÖKTUĞ-BVR and ATMACA RF Seekers that feature similar technologies. The RF Seeker will remain also in the HİSAR-U/GUMS Missile named the SİPER. According to the data we received, the intercept range and altitude of the SİPER Missile were increased. Previously, the Ministry of National Defence of the period stated that SİPER would be able to reach a range of 70km-90km. SİPER will be used merely against the Air Breathing Targets (ABT) in the first stage, Ballistic Missile Interception capability is not planned for the initial stage and this capability may be added to the missile in the future in line with the TurAF’s demands. We were informed that SİPER was physically compatible with VLS utilization and a series of modifications will be needed for the utilization in the ships. Aselsan’s Passive RF Seeker (not under delivery stage yet) remains in the KARGI Expendable Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle developed for the TurAF. Both the passive (broad band, a type of EDT sensor) and active RF Seeker (will operate at a different frequency band compared to the existing RF Seekers, not AESA type mechanically controlled) will be carried by the AKBABA Anti-Radiation Missile. Aselsan has been working on a millimeter wave (MMW) type RF Seeker concept however it has not productized the concept yet. 

At the Naval Systems Technological Demonstration Concept ship model displayed by Aselsan, HİSAR Surface-to-Air Missiles existed in vertical launch configuration at the 16 cellular Indigenous Vertical Launch System right at the back of the 76mm gun at the fore ship (we assume it is the SİPER/HİSAR-U) and the launcher placed next to the ATMACA Surface-to-Surface Missiles in the pool behind the mast, aligning with the projectile motion. A total of 12 HİSAR Surface-to-Air Missiles at each of the six-pack launchers for projectile motion and 16 ATMACA Surface-to-Surface Missiles in the eight-pack launcher configuration were carried on the model.

One of the new products displayed at Aselsan’s stand was DASS EO Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Targeting System, which is the new and higher resolution version of the CATS EO Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Targeting System. Aselsan launched development activities regarding the new generation vision system DASS at the end of 2018 and planned to start Serial production in 2020. The DASS System has a SWIR Camera, Laser Tracer and Acute Angled Day Vision Camera options. On account of its distributed sensor architecture, additional sensors may be integrated to DASS and critical conveniences may be provided during the production and test stages of the system. 

Aselsan has been operating as the Main Contractor as part of the Integrated Air Defence Command Control System Project of the Azerbaijan Air Forces. The Project aims for the command control of Azerbaijan’s air space and the integration of a total of nearly 70 air surveillance/early warning radar systems in 13 types procured from various countries such as Belarus, Ukraine, Russia, Israel and Spain to all of the air Defence missile systems in different types (i.e. Russian origin [S-300 PMU2] and Israel origin [Barak 8]) across the country. The Project will be launched in phases and the contract for the initial phase covering radar integration and forming the air picture was signed at ADEX 2018 Fair in September 2018. However, according to the information we received, the contract has not entered into effect as of May 2019 as the approval of the Council of Ministers was awaited. As part of the Project, Aselsan introduced a new generation Integrated Air Defence Command Control System named “HAKİM”. The system contains the Air Defence Early Defence Command Control System (HERIKKS) and Radar Network (RadNet) capabilities that have been used successfully by the Turkish Armed Forces yet has a higher level than HERIKSS and features capabilities of strategic and operational level. The technical activities regarding the Project continued as of May, though the contract did not enter into force. The bases of Azerbaijan’s Air Forces related with radars were visited in the previous period and certain installations were made and tests were run. An Aselsan representative pointed to the similarity of the infrastructure to be established as part of the HAKİM System with the NATO MASSE System presently utilized by the TurAF and noted that the activities under the first phase that covered the radar integration and formation of the air picture would be realized in a schedule of 18 months (T0+18 months). Today, Aselsan is one of the very few Defence industry companies in the world capable of integrating NATO, Israel and former Soviet Union radars and weapon systems. The know-how and experience gained through this project is expected to be utilized in the integration of the air Defence radar and missile systems of the Turkish Air Forces to the S-400 Triumph Systems procured from Russia for the TurAF. 

Radar Jamming and Deception Simulator (RAKAS) and Communication Jamming and Deception Simulator (MUKAS) displayed in the outdoor exhibition area by Aselsan were among the products unveiled at the Fair. Both systems are formed over the 6 wheeled tactical vehicles manufactured by BMC, developed for the TNFC RAKAS is colored in grey while the MUKAS developed for the Land Forces Command (KKK) is colored in khaki. Aselsan is the Main Contractor as part of the contract signed on 7 September 2012 for the RAKAS and MUKAS Procurement Projects and the delivery of one RAKAS and one MUKAS System formed over tactical vehicles will be accomplished. Mobile generator systems (to provide the required power in places without network) installed over 4 wheeled tactical vehicles, one for each RAKAS and MUKAS and 10 mobile OPKAR Electronic Attack Systems will be delivered to the KKK with the MUKAS. An Aselsan representative with whom we had the chance to interview at the stand defined these systems as “Turkey’s first Electronic Warfare Training Simulators” and RAKAS could be deployed over both naval and land platforms. On the ship, RAKAS will be deployed over the helicopter pad. Though it is qualified as the Radar Jamming and Deception Simulator, in addition to radar jamming, deception, interception and position finding capabilities, with the help of the small MUKAS installed within the system RAKAS is capable of communication/interception, jamming and deception. Therefore, RAKAS is not merely a simulator but also a product that could be used operationally in the tactical field. At the same time, RAKAS is capable of simulating the radars operating at different frequency bands. A communication position finding capability is not required in MUKAS. MUKAS is capable of signal analysis at both HF and UHF bands via ground wave and sky wave antennas. There are quite few extensive systems in the world such as these systems. 

The OPKAR Electronic Warfare Systems that will be provided to the Turkish Armed Forces with MUKAS could be utilized without operators; each could communicate with each other via the “mesh network” or could be remotely controlled via MUKAS. We were informed that the most critical feature of OPKAR is its capacity to perform its tasks very effectively since it is a reactive system. The delivery of the OPKAR will be accomplished in two different configurations composed of G-3 and G-1 (contains field unit). OPKAR systems are at the same time Turkey’s first training simulators in the tactical field. In the meantime, the contract on the Mobile EW System Project for the KKK to be used against radio frequencies was signed between the SSB and Meteksan Savunma at the Fair. Though it contains certain alterations, development of a system that will perform in similar bands with the OPKAR is expected in line with the contract.

RAKAS is a system that could be used against land, air and naval targets and with the help of its automatic tracking system it is capable of detecting and tracking air targets. There are attack antennas and an E/O system over the turret at the back of RAKAS. The missiles could be detected via the radar or the EDT system over the vehicle and they could be jammed via the antennas over the turret. However, since RAKAS is a training simulator as is, more effective tactical systems capable of electronic warfare against missile threats may be required. Still, tests towards identifying the frequency band at which a guided missile seeker in the inventory operates and performance measurement could be conducted with RAKAS.

Roketsan

Turkey’s major rocket and missile manufacturer Roketsan participated in IDEF’ 19 several new products including directed energy weapons, indigenous micro-satellite launching system, and various types of guided missiles. Turkish defence contractor exhibited ALKA Directed Energy Weapon System, ATMACA Surface-to-Surface Missile, CIDA Missile System, KARAOK Short Range Anti-Tank Guided Missile System, Micro-Satellite Launching System (MSLS), TANOK 120mm Laser-Guided Anti-Tank Ammunition, and YATAGAN Missile System. Additionally, Roketsan signed several cooperation agreements with many companies during the event including:

A cooperation agreement with TÜBİTAK SAGE for the development and production of TST 101 Fuses of the MK80 Series General Purpose Bombs.

A cooperation agreement with Aselsan for the development of a Kamikaze Multi-Rotor Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) System.

The ALTAY Serial Production Project Main Subcontractors Contract between the main contractor BMC and the subcontractors Roketsan, Aselsan, Havelsan, and MKEK. 

SavNET Connection Protocol between SSB and Roketsan, Havelsan, Aselsan, TUSAS, TÜBİTAK SAGE, STM, and TEİ.

Cooperation intention agreements with ATA Arms and AKDAŞ Arms for YATAĞAN Missile system.

At IDEF’ 19, Roketsan exhibited its cutting-edge products at its impressive booth and attracted significant attention. Aside from its wide range of missile and rocket solutions, the company also introduced a directed energy weapon system, further expanding its product portfolio. Unveiled at IDEF’ 19 for the first time, ALKA DEW (Directed-Energy Weapon) locally developed by Roketsan to destroy or disable hostile drones. ALKA can be equipped with both laser and electromagnetic jammers and is capable of neutralizing both drone groups and Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) from a safe distance. The system can also track multiple targets with its onboard radar and E/O camera systems. Roketsan developed ALKA in five years and spent the last two years to make it a portable system. It can be used as a mobile system or in a fixed position. ALKA can disable drones up to 4 km (2,4 miles) and destroy drones from 500 m (1,600 feet). The system has successfully passed its preliminary tests and is expected to be deployed to defend critical facilities such as military bases, ports, and airfields.

Roketsan’s indigenous ATMACA Anti-Ship Guided Missile was also displayed for the first time at the exhibition. Designed as a long-range weapon system to be used onboard modern naval platforms under any weather conditions, ATMACA guided missile can be used against both surface and fixed targets providing high-precision strike capabilities. The missile has a range of 220 km and uses GPS (Global Positioning System) and INS (Inertial Navigation System) guidance. Equipped with an Active Radar Seeker, ATMACA missile has the sea-skimming capability and uses Barometric and Radar altimeters to navigate towards its target. The missile can also update targets, re-attack and terminate its mission with modern data link subsystems. Another missile exhibited at the fair for the first time was the CIDA system. Roketsan developed the CIDA as a lightweight, cost-effective system to be used in urban warfare. The shoulder-launched system designed to provide rapid and easy-to-use smart guidance capability to soldiers during urban warfare. Ensuring high accuracy at very short ranges, the system lowers the risk of collateral damage. CIDA exhibited at the fair with its specially developed launcher. The concept development and verification phase of the CIDA system is still underway. 

Laser-guided anti-tank ammunition TANOK also made its debut at IDEF’ 19. TANOK was designed by Roketsan to be used primarily on ALTAY T2 configuration (but for this T2’s Fire Control System should be improved, and laser designator device should be integrated on it). TANOK weighs 11 kg, has a diameter of 120 mm, and is 984 mm long. The missile uses semi-active laser (SAL) guidance and can be employed against stationary or moving targets up to 6 km. It has both direct and top-attack capability and follows an encoded laser beam emitted from the laser designator on the tank. The target can also be illuminated by another source. One of the most innovative products at IDEF’ 19 was the YATAGAN Laser-Guided Miniature Missile system. Designed to be used by a single infantryman, the missile can be fired from existing or new generation 40 mm grenade launchers. The easily operated and man-portable system can be used against different types of threats such as snipers or group of soldiers, especially in urban areas. Equipped with a semi-active laser seeker, the miniature missile has a maximum range of 1,000 m with a maximum CEP value of 1 m. The lightweight and compact missile can be easily integrated onto unmanned aerial vehicles or unmanned ground and surface vehicles.

Anadolu Isuzu & Anadolu Savunma

One of the leading manufacturers of the commercial vehicle sector, Anadolu Isuzu, carries its know-how and assertiveness in the Defence industry under the brand “Anadolu Savunma”. Anadolu Isuzu revealed its heavy trucks towards military utilization developed under the brand “Anadolu Savunma” for the first time at IDEF’ 19. At the Fair, the 8x8 tank carrier vehicle, 8x8 tactical wheeled vehicle and 4x4 tactical wheeled vehicle models named “SEYİT” were introduced. The 8x8 Partially Mine Resistant Recovery Vehicle designed especially for diffracted heavy armored vehicles with Anadolu Isuzu’s infrastructural facilities was displayed at the stand of MPG Makina İmalat San. ve Tic. A.Ş. President Recep Tayyip ERDOĞAN visited Anadolu Isuzu’s stand and received information on the indigenous and national Seyit product group. 

Anadolu Isuzu company conducted exports of US$ 109 Million in 2018 and aims to double its exports until 2023. The SEYİT Military Truck Product Group of the company displayed at IDEF’ 19 for the first time was named after Seyit Onbaşı (Corporal Seyit) who was one of the heroes of the Çanakkale Victory. The SEYİT Military Truck Product Group was revealed as a result of the partnership between Anadolu Savunma and Czech Tatra Group. Support regarding infrastructure was received from Tatra but the design of the vehicles, the armored cabin being at the first place, were conducted completely by Turkish engineers at Anadolu Isuzu’s R&D Center. Designed in a way to enable operation under very challenging circumstances and tough geographical conditions, SEYİT series vehicles can be manufactured in different configurations ranging from 8x8 to 20x20 and with various engine alternatives. 

One of the companies competing for the 8x8, 10x10 and 12x12 Wheeled Tank Transporter, Container Transporter and Recovery Vehicle Project launched by the Land Platforms Department of the SSB, Anadolu Isuzu placed its proposal to the SSB on 16 April 2018. Within the scope of the Project, a total of 476 vehicles composed of 134 Tank Transporter Vehicles (TTV), 65 DROPS Container Transporter Vehicles and 277 Recovery Vehicles will be procured. Anadolu Isuzu signed a Sub Contractor Contract with a total value of US$ 4,580 Million (VAT excluded) with the MPG Makina İmalat San. ve Tic. A.Ş. as part of the Partially Mine Resistant Recovery Vehicles Project and on 10 May 2019 the company notified the Public Disclosure Platform of the fact that the contract value reached US$ 13,312 Million (VAT excluded) as a result of the additional firm orders it received. According to the aforementioned contract, the deliveries will be made in lots until the end of 2019. Anadolu Isuzu will also deliver 8x8 tactical wheeled vehicles to fulfil TAF’s demands as part of the project being executed by the SSB and Aselsan. To this end, a Sub Contractor Contract with the value of EUR 4,598.400 Million (VAT excluded) was signed by Anadolu Isuzu/Savunma and Aselsan on 2 May 2019. The vehicles are planned to be delivered in lots by 2022. 

Displayed at Anadolu Isuzu’s stand at the Fair, capable of operating with the 8x8 traction system under all types of land conditions, the SEYİT 8x8 Tank Transporter Vehicle (TTV) stands out with its towing capacity of 70,000 kg. This 8x8 tank transporter vehicle with the climbing ability at the slopes inclined over 30%. The vehicle is able to reach a maximum speed of 80 km/h. SEYİT TTV features a Cummins X15 99EPA 600 engine and capable of generating 600 hp power and maximum 2.770 Nm torque with the engine volume of 14,9 lt. SEYİT 8x8 tank transporter vehicle can easily pass through 1,100 mm deep water and has a range of 800 km. Accomplished by Anadolu Isuzu R&D engineers, the cabin of the tank transporter vehicle could also be manufactured alternatively in the armored configuration and the cabin is capable of providing STANAG 4569 Level 2 and Level 3 Ballistic Protection. The SEYİT 8x8 Tank Transporter Vehicle draws attention as the only indigenously manufactured vehicle in its class that contains all the features capable of fulfilling the demands of modern armies, the Turkish Armed Forces being in the first place.

The task equipment of the 8x8 Partially Mine Resistant Recovery Vehicle displayed at IDEF’ 19 by MPG Makina İmalat San. ve Tic. A.Ş. was designed by MPG Makina. This vehicle is capable of successfully performing the tasks under tough land and road conditions and was manufactured in a way to be able to recover the malfunctioned large tonnage vehicles and armored vehicles. Weighing 43,000 kg, the Partially Mine Resistant Recovery Vehicle features a climbing ability of 60% inclination, and it is capable of passing 1,100 mm deep waters as well. Featuring a 14,9 lt volume with the Cummins X15 99EPA 600 engine, the 8x8 partially mine resistant recovery vehicle has 600hp and it can reach a speed of 80 km/h. With a range over 500 km, the aforementioned vehicle will be included to the inventory soon and start to operate in the TAF.

ASFAT Inc.

Presently authorized to utilize 27 Military Factories and 3 Military Shipyards and labor capacity of nearly 20,000 people, ASFAT Inc. attended IDEF’ 19 at the Ministry of National Defence’s stand in order to develop its relations with international institutions and associations as well as introducing its products and services. The latest status reached by the military factories and military shipyards that play a critical role in Turkish Defence and Aerospace Sector was revealed at a sizeable stand. An actual FIRTINA II K/M Howitzer and F110-GE-100 turbofan engine was displayed at the stand where many products such as ADA Class Corvette, GABYA Class Frigate, BARBAROS Class Frigate, TF-2000 Anti- Air Warfare Destroyer, GÜR Class Submarine, REİS Class Submarine, Floating Dock, Poyraz Ammunition Vehicle, Atılım Engine Test Cell, Flight Simulator and Ballistic Helmet and Protective Vest were displayed with their scaled versions. ASFAT Inc. conducted one on one interviews with international delegations and companies during the Fair and at the same time signed international agreements with the Defence Ministry of Montenegro, Vard from Canada, Damen from Netherlands, UkrObronProm from Ukraine and Airbus Defence while signing strategic cooperation agreements with local companies such as Meteksan, Best Grup, YDS, Alp Aviation and BITES. 

STM

Providing effective solutions in the field of autonomous systems as a pioneer in the Turkish defence industry, STM exhibited its broad range of autonomous drone systems developed with domestic and national resources at IDEF’ 19. STM added new and improved features to its kamikaze drones to effectively use these systems in coordination with other autonomous drone systems for reconnaissance-surveillance purposes. STM unveiled the first indigenous fixed-wing kamikaze drone ALPAGU, rotary-wing kamikaze drone KARGU, and autonomous TOGAN Reconnaissance UAV System at IDEF’ 19 with newly added features.

KARGU is an indigenous rotary-wing UAV that can be deployed and operated by single personnel in both autonomous and manual modes. The system was designed specifically for asymmetric warfare scenarios and currently remains at the inventory of Turkish Armed Forces. Capable of rapidly engaging both stationary and mobile targets, the new lightweight design of KARGU provides extended endurance and task duration capacities. The indigenous TOGAN multi-rotor rotary-wing UAV solution for general-purpose reconnaissance and surveillance missions was upgraded with a new electro-optical pod system, which increases the image resolution quality. TOGAN was also updated with a new automatic assignment change feature that enables the execution of joint operations with the KARGU UAVs. STM also introduced a lighter version of ALPAGU. Its weight reduced from 3,9 kg to 1,9 kg while maintaining the existing ammunition capacity and thus providing easy portability. Improved image processing and target detection capabilities were also added to the system. Conducting studies on studies on implementing artificial Intelligence-supported swarm technologies to its platforms, STM displayed the first examples of the multi-drone operation performed with around 20 kamikaze KARGU platform at IDEF’ 19. 

During the fair, STM signed various protocols and agreements with different institutions for new defence projects. Under the leadership of the Presidency for Defence Industries, STM has signed a protocol on the “Development of Electric Propulsion System in Speed Boats” with Aselsan at IDEF’ 19. With the protocol, STM and Aselsan will work in collaboration on the development of the electric propulsion system, which has become important for ship technologies and to create a unity of experience by bringing together know-how and experiences. STM signed the TOGAN Goodwill Protocol with FNSS for the integration of fixed and rotary-wing unmanned aerial vehicles developed by STM for reconnaissance and surveillance missions onto the manned and unmanned armored combat vehicles, armored personnel carriers, reconnaissance surveillance vehicles and turret systems designed and manufactured by FNSS

ASİSGUARD 

ASİSGUARD, the latest Defence organization of Asis, which has been active in the area of smart cities in Turkey for many years, introduced its system solutions regarding military drones and land vehicles developed through indigenous resources to the sector at IDEF’ 19.

SONGAR is an automatic shooting stabilized armed drone system developed by ASİSGUARD in order to be used efficiently in all day and night, military and security-based operations. Capable of operating simultaneously with single or multiple drone systems, SONGAR fulfils many critical tasks such as the detection of the target area, neutralization of the threat, post - operation damage detection and real time image transferring.

The SALGUR Striking Micro Drone System is another product of the Drone Group and it is capable of performing tasks in four different operation modes composed of reconnaissance, surveillance, listening and striking in covert operations or special operations. Performing its tasks quite silently, SALGUR offers a great advantage to the armed forces in terms of time and intelligence during critical operations.

Another product of ASİSGUARD displayed at IDEF’ 19 is the YAZGUR Electro-Optical Camera Systems. This product group is composed of thermal camera systems enabling remote monitoring both at bright and dark external environments and a video management system that maintains 360-degree viewing.

The vehicle electronics group SADAK is composed of an In-Vehicle Intercom System, Siren Announcement System, Driver Information System, ASIS Blackbox, Central Tire Inflation System and Military Vehicle In-Vehicle Health and Usage Monitoring System. Developed by ASİSGUARD, the SADAK product group enables the more efficient utilization of land vehicles and the reduction of maintenance costs.

BMC  

One of Turkey’s leading commercial and military vehicle manufacturers and as one of the greatest participants of the Fair, BMC displayed its 11 military vehicles at its stand of nearly 1,500 m2. Hosting the TUĞRA 8x8 Tank Transporter, Kirpi II, Kirpi II Ambulance, Amazon Versatile Armored Vehicle, Howitzer and Standard Multi-Purpose Armored Vehicles, 5 Tons of TTV Armored Cabin, AKTAN (Battle Field Fuel Tank for Land Vehicles), Container Transporter and Riot Control Vehicles in addition to the T1 Technology Demonstrator with many dummy sub-systems and changes over the ALTAY PV2 prototype, the BMC stand welcomed the notable interest of the participants.

BMC stand was visited by President Recep Tayyip ERDOĞAN and the accompanying high level delegation on the first day of the Fair and the latest version of the ‘AMAZON Multi-Purpose Armored Vehicle with Remote Control’ which was introduced in the presence of President ERDOĞAN at the beginning of this year, during the BMC Karasu’s Groundbreaking Ceremony and new versions of the tactical wheeled vehicles equipped with state-of-art technologies. The tactical wheeled vehicles were also exhibited at various events in the past.

As one of the companies competing in the tender 8x8, 10x10 and 12x12 Wheeled Tank Transporter, Container Transporter and Recovery Vehicle Project launched by the SSB’s Land Platforms Department in order to increase the operational capabilities of the maneuver units of the KKK and to provide combat service support, BMC submitted its proposal to the SSB in the first half of 2018. A total of 476 vehicles composed of 134 Tank Transporter Vehicles (TTV), 65 DROPS Container Transporter Vehicles and 277 Recovery Vehicles will be procured as part of the Project. The first contract regarding the demand for Tank Transporter Vehicles in 8x8 configuration was signed between the SSB and BMC, and the delivery of the 72 TUĞRA TTVs is planned to be launched in August 2019. At IDEF’ 19, BMC displayed the ALTAY T1 Technology Demonstrator over TUĞRA TTV with an engine of 620hp and with a towing capacity of 120 tons. 

According to the information we received from the representatives of BMC with whom we had the chance to interview on 30 April 2019, 100 professional BMC staff have been working on the ALTAY Project as of April and this number is planned to be increased to 300 by the end of the year. Nearly 1,300 people are expected to be employed within the scope of the Project during the Serial Production Phase with nearly 1,000 blue collar staff. If the company also wins the tender launched for the 8x8 New Generation Light Armored Vehicles of which the RFP is expected to be published by the SSB, BMC plans to conduct the activities at the same facility with the ALTAY Serial Production Project. We were informed that at the tender BMC will be competing with the indigenous design in 8x8 configuration. Despite the fact that the ALTAY Serial Production Contract valued at Euro 3,5 Billion signed with the SSB still did not enter into effect (T0 did not start), BMC already launched its activities at an area of 5,000 m2 at the 1st Main Maintenance Factory Directorate in Arifiye. According to the information we received, depending on the result of the privatization process of the 1st Main Maintenance Factory Directorate, whether the facilities at Arifiye or the facilities at Karasu will be selected for the execution of the Serial Production activities. In case Arifiye is selected, installation of additional benches will be required since the benches at this facility are insufficient in numbers and in terms of technology. Since BMC committed to manufacture 6 ALTAY MBT per month during the Serial Production Phase, modern benches enabling the achievement of this production will be required. 

The ALTAY MBT T1 Demonstrator shown over the TUĞRA TTV at the FAIR was in the form of T1 systems installed over the PV2 prototype and as a dummy product due to the fact that many systems over the T1 Demonstrator prepared within 2 months by the BMC staff at 1st Main Maintenance Factory Directorate were not yet ready. We were informed that the main difference between the PV2 prototype and T1 originates from the Aselsan product AKKOR AKS and Roketsan’s product the reformed armor box. Over the T1 Demonstrator, there is slat armor and thicker ERA package at the sides of the hull and a new armor box at the top of the turret. 4 AKKOR AKS radars surround the Turret, moreover there many electronic units within the tank for AKKOR AKS, therefore the back of the turret is slightly expanded. Manual utilization of the AKKOR AKS is not considered since it is a system reacting in a duration measured with milliseconds. The tank commander will be switching the system on and off via the user interface (control panel) and receive data on whether the launchers (two launchers each with two cells) are full or empty. The weight of the ALTAY MBT in the existing configuration is 63.5 tons and 25 tons of this is the weight of the turret. In response to our question on whether the increase in the tank due to the additional armor box in the T1 version will affect the performance of the power pack or not, BMC representatives stated that extra changes were not necessary since the weight in the T1 configuration remained within the weight limits they projected. AKKOR AKS will also be in the 210 T2 model to be manufactured after the 40 T1s, but a completely different armor box will be used in this tank. BMC representatives underlined that a significant amount of weight change will be faced as the main armor of the tank will also be different and added, “We cannot state a figure yet, but the first 40 tanks are T1, so we have a long time before the T2 schedule. We will proceed step by step, upon the approval of the SSB”. The same power pack will exist in the ALTAY MBT T2 model. 

BMC signed a contract on the ALTAY MBT Power Pack with the SSB on 13 June 2018. The name BATU was given to the ALTAY MBT Power Pack to be composed of the diesel engine and automatic transmission that will be developed by BMC Power Company. 

 

SDT 

SDT (Space & Defence Technologies Inc.) develops indigenous software, hardware and integrated solutions for Defence, Space and Aviation areas since February 2005. The company possesses special expertise in radar-EW signal processing, image processing/pattern recognition, embedded software/systems, avionic systems, land system electronic units, RF jammer systems, satellite technologies, and simulation & training systems. SDT participated at IDEF’ 19 with its reliable Electronic Warfare & Communication Systems products and exhibited the AVCI Anti-Drone system, Communication Monitoring and Localization Systems, Weapon Control & Interface Units, and Air Combat Training (ACT) Solutions.

The SDT AVCI Anti-Drone System is designed to detect, track and defeat Micro and Mini Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) engaged in hostile airborne surveillance and potentially hostile activity. AVCI is a smart-sensor and countermeasure package capable of remotely detecting small UAVs and then tracking and classifying them before providing the option to disrupt their activity. The system combines electronic-scanning radar target detection, electro-optical (EO) tracking/classification and directional RF jamming capability. The detected drones can be defeated using directional /omnidirectional jamming solutions or hard-kill solutions. AVCI system employs PESA (Passive Electronically Scanned Array) radars, which operate in Ku-band frequency. The radar is modular non-rotating, electronic-scanning (e-scan) system which is capable of detecting UAVs with a radar cross-section of 0,01 m2 at ranges up to 10 km. The radar covers 180° and can be used in back-to-back configuration to provide 360° surveillance. Target tracking software and extensive zone filtering features allow drones to be detected while reducing false alarms from birds. 

The new generation of Communication Monitoring and Localization System was developed to respond to all the needs of Electronic Warfare (EW) in the most efficient way. SDT also delivered a similar system called Radio Frequency Signal Analysis System (RFSAS), which was developed under the KILAVUZ Project in September 2014. The system detects narrowband and wideband signals (0,4-18GHZ) with high sensitivity, finds signal direction and source position and classifies and resolves those signals. All time-critical operations are performed in real-time automatically. The resulting processed and unprocessed data are recorded and then analyzed using smart filters. The distinguishing feature of the developed system over its opponents is that it can detect all narrowband, wideband, Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) and Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) signals and make them ready for listening.

Among SDT’s Embedded Simulation System (ESS) solutions, Airborne ESS was the first air combat training system development back in 2007. The system is fully integrated into aircraft Operational Flight Program (OFP) and has gone through several ground and flight tests before final deployment. One of the important elements of SDT’s Embedded Simulation System (ESS), is the Air Combat Maneuvering Instrumentation (ACMI) system.  SDT’s ACMI system (pod and ground system) was successfully certified via flight tests conducted together with TAI and the Turkish Air Force on F-16 aircraft. SDT ACMI System is mounted on F-16s and similar airborne platforms in external pods and provides effective Air-to-Air and Air-to-Ground training opportunities. SDT ACMI System has advanced combat capabilities such as real-time autonomous position generation, weapon simulations and Real-Time Kill Notifications (RTKN) thanks to its long-range and high throughput RF data link and integrated processors, which provides a Live-Virtual- Constructive (LVC) training infrastructure. The system has mission planning, live monitoring, and post-mission analysis capabilities. SDT ACMI can also simulate both RF and IR guided missiles and enables fighter pilots to train in a multi-participant threat and target environment. 

SDT also produced the Weapon Control & Interface Units of the ARCT (Anti-Tank Remote Controlled Turrets) designed and developed by Roketsan for the Anti-Tank Vehicle Development Project carried out by FNSS as the main contractor. SDT oversee the integration of KORNET and OMTAS missiles to the vehicles and ensures that the turrets function according to the requirements of the project. The products which were designed and integrated into the vehicles by SDT includes; 15” Multifunctional Gunner Display (NE), Platform Interface Unit (PAB), Gunner Interface Control Unit (NAKB), KORNET Missile Adaptation Unit (KOFUB), KORNET Range Selection Adaptation Unit (KOMSUB), and OMTAS Mission Unit (OGB). SDT manages all the servos on the turret, the thermal sighting system, the laser rangefinder, the inertial measuring unit, together with all of the subsystems inside the vehicle, which provide the necessary data to the main systems.

Dearsan

The mock-ups of the Tuzla Class Patrol Boats and Corvette, Offshore Patrol Boats and Fast Intervention Boats displayed at the stand of Gülhan & Dearsan Business Partnership drew great attention and Dearsan’s stand was visited by many local and foreign companies and visitors. The most attention-grabbing products of the stand were the C92 Corvette which started to be built in Turkmenistan in line with the contract signed with the Turkmenistan’s Ministry of Defence and the Norwegian Skjold Class Corvettes suggested as part of the Turkish Type Torpedo Boat demands of the TNFC. With a length of nearly 47.5m and height of 15m, the Skjold Class Torpedo Boats have an air - shield catamaran hull design and feature 8 Surface-to-Surface Missiles and the 76mm Super Rapid main with a range of around 12 km. The Skjold Corvettes with quite low RCS figure are capable of reaching a speed up to 60 knots in sea state 0 and 45 knots in sea state 3 with the help of the main propulsion system in CODAG configuration. We were informed that the speed requirement of the Turkish Type Torpedo Boat Project was decreased to 45 knots. 

The C92 Corvette being built in Turkmenistan with the construction equipment and parts sent from Turkey weigh 1,600 tons and is capable of reaching a speed of 28 knots with the drive system composed of 4 diesel machines and two pivots. Dearsan will be conducting the sale of two C92 Corvettes to Turkmenistan; one of these two is a firm sale while the other is optional. Hull mounted DSH sonar, a helicopter pad available for the SeaHawk helicopter, two 12,7mm STAMP, VL Mica SAM system and 76mm Super Rapid gun will remain on the C92 Corvette. 

Meteksan Defence 

Displaying its products that have proven themselves in the field and that are included in the inventory, Meteksan Savunma also conducted the launching of its new and updated products at IDEF’ 19. The MİLSAR SAR/GMTI Radar, C-Band Data Link, new Retinar FAR and KAPAN Anti-Drone Systems, YAKAMOS 2020 Hull Mounted DSH Sonar, Submarine Intercept Bearing and Distance Identification Sonar, Helicopter MİLDAR-2 Fire Control Radar and KEMENT Indigenous Tactical Data Link of which the air-to-ground and air-to-air tests as part of Field Acceptance Activities were conducted successfully in June 2019 in addition to the final of the project were among the Meteksan Savunma products displayed at IDEF’ 19 for the first time. 

Within the scope of the TÜBİTAK SAVTAG project contract signed between TÜBİTAK BİLGEM and Meteksan Defence, the acoustic sensor arrays performing at the 1-100 kHz band, frontal electronic units and internal ship components with real time signal processing software were designed and manufactured for the Submarine Intercept Bearing and Distance Identification Sonar. The Intercept Passive Sonar - IPS features its own operator console in order to display the detection and evaluation results and enabling user entries. The IPS System is capable of operating integrated to the existing acoustic sensor array in the submarine in addition to its own acoustic unit; and is able to continuously conduct real time data flow, analysis and display from both sonar arrays simultaneously. The Submarine Intercept Bearing and Distance Identification Sonar manufactured by Meteksan Defence was installed to one of the four AY Class submarines in the TNFC’s inventory and launched into service. The aforementioned submarine performed in the Deniz Kurdu 2019 Military Practice. The ASIST Intercept Sonar System manufactured by Aselsan is employed in the remaining three submarines. The Intercept Sonar System remains at the back part of the sails in AY Class Submarines and in PREVEZE and GÜR Class Submarines it is located inside the hatch bulging out at the ship’s nose. 

Otokar

Leading the sector in land systems and breaking a lot of new ground, Otokar presented its 10 armored vehicles and its BAŞOK, MIZRAK, BOZOK, ÜÇOK and KESKİN turret systems to users at its stand at the Fair. Turkey’s first electrical armored vehicle AKREP IIe, TULPAR Light Tank, mine resistant Armored Emergency Response Ambulance of COBRA II, URAL Special Operations Vehicle at the stand were the vehicles introduced at IDEF Fair by Otokar. The vehicles and turret systems of Otokar displayed at the 7th hall and at the stand numbered 713 were as follows: 

TULPAR Light Tank

TULPAR S Tracked Armored Vehicle, with BAŞOK turret system

ARMA 8x8 Armored Combat Vehicle, with MIZRAK-30 mm turret system

ARMA 6x6 Armored Combat Vehicle, with BOZOK-25 mm turret system

COBRA II Mine Resistant Armored Emergency Response Ambulance

COBRA II 4x4 Armored Personnel Carrier, with ÜÇOK turret system

COBRA 4x4 Armored Personnel Carrier, KESKİN turret system

URAL 4x4 Armored Personnel Carrier with Otokar BAŞOK turret system

URAL 4x4 Special Operation Vehicle

AKREP IIe Electrical Armored Vehicle 

Designed by Otokar as an armored reconnaissance and weapon platform, the AKREP IIe 4x4 New Generation 

 

Armored Vehicle Product Group is manufactured to fulfil the contemporary and future demands of armies with its low silhouette. In addition to its operational performance under all types of field conditions the vehicle has high maneuver capability and has an infrastructure that could enable the utilization of alternative power packs such as electricity, diesel and hybrid. The power generation and transmission systems, sensors, computers, communication and targeting systems are integrated within a single system in the AKREP IIe and the vehicle provides an infrastructure that will accelerate the transition to autonomous vehicles. Different configurations of the AKREP IIe such as the Armored Reconnaissance Vehicle, Fire Support Vehicle (90mm gun), Light Weight Infantry Support Vehicle (25mm gun, the model displayed at the Fair) and Laser Gun Vehicle were designed. Two NMC540 Series new generation Li-Ion battery pack manufactured by Altınay Company are included in the Light Weight Infantry Support Vehicle with a hybrid propulsion system were displayed at the Fair. The product AxleTech an independent suspension system is also present in the vehicle. The AKREP IIe Fire Support Vehicle to be equipped with a 360 hp power capacity diesel engine and CMI Cockerill CSE90LP 90mm automatic gun is expected to be revealed at the EuroSatory 2020 Fair. 

TÜBİTAK

The Miniature Precision Guided Ammunition Family named KUZGUN (RAVEN), the Air Defence Missile named G-40 both of which are being developed by TÜBİTAK SAGE and currently at their conceptual design phase and the MÜREN Integrated Underwater Combat Management System (CMS) developed by TÜBİTAK BİLGEM and already integrated on Turkish Navy’s AY Class Submarines TCG Doğanay (S-351) and TCG Dolunay (S-352) were the products that were revealed for the first time during IDEF ‘19, grabbed our attention at the TÜBİTAK stand.

KUZGUN is a filterable smart ammunition group that could be equipped with laser, IIR and radar (RF) seekers with motorized and non-motorized versions dropped from the aircraft. Resembling the SPEAR III Missile manufactured by MBDA with such features, KUZGUN’s design enables discharge from naval platforms and land vehicles in addition to air platforms. 

The G-40 missile in which components such as the rocket engine of the GÖKTUĞ-BVR air-to-air missile, warhead and seeker head is a vertically launched air Defence missile system that is launched from a VLS type launcher by a launcher mechanism called “soft cold launch”. The range of the G-40 is 40 km, and its maximum altitude is stated as 40,000ft. KUZGUN may be installed instead of the G-40’s warhead; therefore, it could be utilized for attacking ground targets from the ground or from the sea. With the help of the internal data link system of KUZGUN, it will be possible to adjust routes and targets until the point of impact with the target. 

A contract regarding the MÜREN CMS Ay Class Implementation Project was signed in 2016. Within the scope of the Project conducted under the cooperation of the Research Center Command (ArMerKom) of the Naval Forces Command, Gölcük Shipyard and TÜBİTAK, modern heavy weight torpedo discharging capability, sensor data such as sonar, periscope and electronic support and indigenous target motion analysis, track management and indigenous weapon control unit capabilities were added to the AY Class Submarines. The Project was completed in 2,5 years and the activities under warranty are presently continuing. MÜREN CMS is actively utilized on the TCG Doğanay (S-351) and the TCG Dolunay (S-352) Submarines at present. According to the information we received, 8 torpedoes were launched in 2018 as part of the test campaign. As Mark 48 Mod 6AT and AKYA Heavy Weight Torpedoes are not identified within the scope of this project, only DM2A4 SeeHecht Heavy Weight Torpedoes could be launched by MÜREN CMS. In line with the ‘MÜREN CMS PREVEZE Class Implementation Project’ contract signed in August 2017, MÜREN CMS will be implemented over a PREVEZE Class submarine until 2023. In addition to DM2A4 SeeHecht, Mark 48 Mod 6AT and AKYA Heavy Weight Torpedoes could be launched by MÜREN CMS in this Project. In respect with the MÜREN CMS PREVEZE Project ongoing since 2017, the tests will be launched after nearly one and a half years from May 2019. 

With MÜREN CMS, not only modern heavy weight torpedo launching capability but also a critical capability called Target Motion Analysis - TMA bearing vital importance for the submarines was acquired. There are fewer monitors than planned in the consoles utilized on the MÜREN CMS due to the lack of space on the submarine. Though there are mainly two consoles, all consoles could replace each other. When there is a breakdown in one of the consoles, the software could be transferred to the other. These consoles are manufactured by AYESAŞ. In this Project, for the AY Class Submarines, AYESAŞ designed and delivered a special console that needed to fit into a very limited area and upon the success it achieved another contract was signed in 2018 under the MÜREN CMS PREVEZE Class Implementation Project. As the sub-contractor of TÜBİTAK BİLGEM, YALTES will be developing and delivering the demanded consoles, electronic cabinets, combat data/video networks and Local Launching Panels for PREVEZE Class Submarines. The cabin called Combat Management Center on PREVEZE Submarines will be emptied completely, the ISUS-83/2 CMS will be detached, and the MÜREN CMS will be replacing it. The MÜREN CMS is capable of managing 4 different heavy weight torpedoes engagements simultaneously. 

Two different modernization projects composed of MLU and MÜREN CMS are being conducted in parallel for PREVEZE Class Submarines. Initially the MÜREN CMS PREVEZE Class Implementation Project was launched, and this Project covers a total of four submarines.

Vestel Defence Industry

This year, Vestel Defence Industry displayed the KARAYEL-SU UAV Systems and fuel cell technologies at the Fair. The company has been developing and manufacturing Unmanned Air Vehicles in various segments since 2005 and KARAYEL-SU is the most improved model of these. A model enhanced with new capabilities and painted with digital camouflage was presented at IDEF’ 19. Vestel Defence Industry’s KARAYEL Tactical UAV was developed by Turkish engineers, fully with local facilities and it was exported to a Gulf country in 2018. On account of the ‘substantial amount’ of sales achieved, the company received the grand prize on the Highest Amount of Foreign Sales among the companies with the SME status, at the Defence Industry Awards Ceremony held by SASAD in April 2019. We have been informed that KARAYEL UAV Systems continue to fulfil their tasks successfully in the country in question at present. According to the data provided by Vestel Defence Industry, over a total of 15,000 hours of flight was accomplished by KARAYEL UAV as of April 2019. The single CİRİT missile launcher under the wing of KARAYEL-SU UAV colored with digital camouflage displayed at the stand drew attention. According to the information we received, at the ballistic test conducted with KARAYEL-SU at Acıkıran in January 2019, the target was successfully shot with the CİRİT Missile at a distance of nearly 8 km. 

Investing approximately US$ 30 Million in the field of fuel cell technologies since its establishment, Vestel Defence introduced the latest level it has reached in this area at IDEF’ 19. Revealing products in this area as a result of many successfully completed R&D projects and the cooperation activities between university and industry, Vestel Defence stands out with its capabilities in PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) type fuel cell technologies. Vestel Defence is currently one of the three companies that received RFPs to place a proposal for the Air-Independent Propulsion Submarine Project launched in 2018 by the SSB for the establishment of an indigenous infrastructure in respect with the PEM Fuel Cell and Fuel Reformer (Methyl Alcohol will be used and only for MİLDEN) demands towards the Type 14TN Reis Class and MİLDEN Submarines. The bids of the companies were received in autumn 2018 and the selection of the Main Contractor company is expected to be accomplished by the end of this year. Vestel Defence, Aspilsan and Roketsan were the bidding companies and since it cannot place a bid due to its institutional identity TÜBİTAK MAM Energy Institute submitted a proposal enabling its collaboration with these three companies as a Sub Contractor.

The fuel cell technology and the power capacities utilized in submarines are way over the fuel cells (capacity of 5Kw) currently manufactured in Turkey. Therefore, the tender was launched aiming a capacity over the power capacity owned by PEM fuel cells on Reis class submarines at present and also for developing and strengthening the indigenous fuel cell technology and the existing infrastructure, as well as to utilize it in the MİLDEN - National Submarine platform. The aim from MİLDEN is a net of 300 Kw and a nearly 360-370 Kw gross capacity. A total of 6 PEM fuel cell modules each with a power capacity of 60 Kw will be utilized. While in the Reis Class, 4 of these modules are planned to be used for the power requirement of 240 Kw. You can read a comprehensive report on the current status of indigenous PEM Fuel Cell and Reformer development efforts for submarines in our next issue