The Turkiye defense industry has unveiled a new weapon in its air defense arsenal: the GÖKDEMİR Medium Altitude Air Defense Missile System. Developed by ASELSAN and TÜBİTAK-SAGE, this innovative system marks a significant leap forward in Turkiye’s capabilities to protect its skies.
Key Points:
First Public Display and Test Firing: GÖKDEMİR was showcased for the first time during a TRT broadcast, and its maiden firing tests were reportedly conducted in late 2022.
GÖKDOĞAN Air-to-Air Missile Integration: The system utilizes the GÖKDOĞAN missile, known for its 70+ kilometer range, adapted for land-based deployment with an expected effective range of 30-35 kilometers.
Comparison with HİSAR-RF: While GÖKDEMİR shares some similarities with the existing HİSAR-RF system, it offers potential advantages such as a higher number of missiles per launch vehicle (8-12 vs. 6) and potentially lower cost.
Future Potential: ASELSAN envisions a domestic NASAMS concept built around GÖKDEMİR, and integration with the BOZDOĞAN missile is also a possibility.
Beyond the Unveiling: A Step Towards Self-Reliance
The GÖKDEMİR system represents a significant step towards Turkiye’s goal of self-reliance in air defense technology. By utilizing domestically developed components like the GÖKDOĞAN missile and KALKAN radar, Turkiye is reducing its dependence on foreign suppliers and building its own expertise in this crucial domain.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future for Turkiye’s Skies
The GÖKDEMİR system is just the latest addition to Turkiye’s increasingly sophisticated air defense network. With continued investment and innovation, Turkiye is well on its way to establishing itself as a leader in this critical field, ensuring the safety and security of its airspace for years to come.
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Company Profiles:
ASELSAN: Turkish defense contractor specializing in electronics and communication systems.
TÜBİTAK-SAGE: Turkiye’s leading research and development organization in aerospace and defense technologies.
Hashtags: #TurkishCentury #DefenseInnovation #MadeinTurkiye