Turkish Air Defence Programs

[HaiderAfan]

Air Marshal Abbas Ghumman of the Pakistan Air Force visits Turkish Aerospace pavilion at #SAHAEXPO2024

 

[Akbar26]

On October 23, 2024, a terrorist attack occurred at the headquarters of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) in Kahramankazan, near Ankara. The attack involved a combination of a suicide bombingand gunfire, resulting in significant casualties.

Key Details of the Attack​

• Casualties: At least four people were killed, including two assailants, and 14 others were injured. Reports indicate that the death toll may vary, with some sources mentioning five fatalities and up to 22 injuries.
• Attack Method: The attackers reportedly used assault rifles and explosives. They arrived in a taxi, detonated an explosive device, and opened fire as they entered the facility.
• Timing: The assault coincided with a shift change at TAI, leading to a higher number of employees present at the time.
• Response: Security forces engaged with the attackers, and emergency services were dispatched to manage the situation. Employees were instructed to remain inside the building for safety.

Official Reactions​

Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed the incident as a terrorist attack, expressing condolences for the victims and wishing a speedy recovery to the injured. He stated, “Unfortunately, we have martyrs and injured people.” The attack has drawn condemnation from various officials, including Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç, who announced that an investigation is underway.

Context​

The Turkish Aerospace Industries is a key player in Turkey's defense sector, involved in significant projects such as the development of Turkey's first domestically produced combat aircraft. The attack raises concerns about security in sensitive military and industrial areas in Turkey, particularly given previous threats from groups like the PKK (Kurdistan Workers' Party) and ISIS.

Investigations​

As investigations continue, authorities are working to determine the motives behind the attack and identify any potential affiliations of the perpetrators. No group has claimed responsibility yet, but the incident underscores ongoing security challenges faced by Turkey amid rising tensions in the region.

 

[sidkhan2]

Turkiye's first Aircraft engine, the TEI-TF6000, is on display at SAHA EXPO 2024.

 

[HaiderAfan]

The Turkish Air Force has delivered a powerful response, striking key facilities
used by PKK/YPG terrorists in Northern Syria in retaliation for
the attack on TUSAS headquarters in Ankara.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1849239682334282142

ASELSAN General Manager Ahmet Akyol emphasized Türkiye's focus on advancing its defense sector through exports and international collaborations. He noted that ASELSAN plays a central role in this journey, driving the country's efforts to strengthen its global presence in defense technologies.

 

[sidkhan2]

https://twitter.com/x/status/1849602970289307676

 

[AbdulQadir7]

ترک فضائیہ کے F-16 لڑاکا طیاروں کا ایلیفینٹ واک کا مظاہرہ

https://twitter.com/x/status/1849465133770108940

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[HaiderAfan]

https://twitter.com/x/status/1849473038569386171

 

[HaiderAfan]

https://twitter.com/x/status/1849720964499566626

 

[HamzaWaseem]

https://twitter.com/x/status/1849720964499566626

At the SAHA EXPO 2024 in Istanbul, Baykar showcased its TB2 drone featuring a new ASELSAN pod. This event, running from October 22-26, 2024, serves as a prominent platform for defense and aerospace innovations, highlighting Turkey's growing capabilities in these sectors.

Key Highlights:​

• TB2 Drone: The Bayraktar TB2 has gained international recognition for its effectiveness in various conflicts. The new ASELSAN pod enhances its operational capabilities, likely improving surveillance and targeting functions.
• ASELSAN Collaboration: ASELSAN is a leading Turkish defense electronics company, and the integration of their technology into the TB2 underscores the collaboration between Turkish defense manufacturers to bolster military capabilities.
• SAHA EXPO Significance: This exhibition is one of the largest defense and aerospace events in Turkey, featuring over 1,200 exhibitors and attracting significant international attention. It showcases advanced technologies across various sectors, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), naval systems, and more.

This showcase at SAHA EXPO not only highlights Baykar's advancements but also reflects Turkey's strategic focus on enhancing its defense industry and fostering international partnerships.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1849717862891393139

 

[AbdulQadir7]

Turkey’s defense companies Roketsan and Aselsan have signed a significant agreement to mass-produce additional Hisar and Siper missile defense systems. This deal is part of Turkey’s strategic initiative to strengthen and expand its indigenous layered air defense network, known as "Çelik Kubbe" (Steel Dome), which aims to enhance national airspace security through advanced, domestically-produced missile technology.

The Hisar and Siper systems, crucial components of Turkey's defense infrastructure, offer various intercept capabilities that target low-to-high-altitude threats, providing comprehensive coverage against missiles, drones, and aircraft. This expansion reflects Turkey’s commitment to self-sufficiency in defense and bolsters its regional defense posture.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1850810794637742224

 

[Akbar26]

Türkiye's SİPER Block-1 long-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system has officially entered service, boasting a range of over 100 kilometers (62 miles). This development marks a significant enhancement of Türkiye's air defense capabilities.

Key Features of SİPER Block-1:​

• Operational Range: The SİPER Block-1 can effectively engage aerial threats at distances exceeding 100 kilometers, providing robust protection against various airborne targets, including aircraft and missiles.
• Future Developments: Work is ongoing for the SİPER Block-2, which is expected to extend the range to 150 kilometers, and the SİPER Block-3, targeting capabilities beyond 180 kilometers.
• Advanced Technology: The SİPER system integrates sophisticated radar and command technologies, allowing it to track and engage multiple targets simultaneously. It is designed to operate in diverse conditions, ensuring high mobility and effectiveness in various combat scenarios.
• Strategic Importance: The introduction of the SİPER system is part of Türkiye's broader initiative to enhance its national defense infrastructure through domestically developed technologies, reducing reliance on foreign systems.

This advancement positions Türkiye as a key player in the development of modern air defense systems, contributing to regional security dynamics.

 

[sidkhan2]

Türkiye's SİPER Block-1 long-range Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) system marks a significant milestone in the country’s air defense capabilities. Developed by Turkey’s defense companies ASELSAN and ROKETSAN, SİPER Block-1 is designed to counter various airborne threats, including aircraft, drones, and potentially even ballistic missiles.

With a range of over 100 kilometers (62 miles), Block-1 sets the stage for more advanced iterations. The development roadmap includes:

• Block-2, which aims for a range of 150 kilometers.
• Block-3, expected to push the range beyond 180 kilometers.

This progression aligns with Türkiye’s goals to strengthen its national defense architecture and develop indigenous technologies. The SİPER project, part of Türkiye’s layered air defense strategy, complements other Turkish defense systems, adding depth to its aerial protection capabilities.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1850907359276646705

 

[HaiderAfan]

The touchscreen display developed by STG for Türkiye's 5th gen fighter KAAN.Featuring an anti-reflective design unlike the F-35's screen. After being tested in KAAN's first prototype and refined based on feedback, the latest version was showcased at SAHA EXPO.Turkiye.

https://x.com/Defence_IDA/status/1850723812922327244/photo/1

 

[sidkhan2]

The Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) officially handed over the GÖKBEY helicopter to the Turkish Armed Forces. Designed for multi-role capabilities, GÖKBEY is Turkey's first indigenous utility helicopter, capable of operating in various environments and supporting military, medical evacuation, and transport operations. This milestone strengthens Türkiye’s self-sufficiency in defense technology and adds a critical asset to its aerial fleet.

 

[AbdulQadir7]

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's statement about developing a “Steel Dome” suggests Türkiye’s intention to create an advanced air defense system to match or surpass Israel’s Iron Dome. This remark underscores Türkiye’s aim to enhance its domestic defense capabilities amid growing regional tensions and signals its commitment to achieving military self-sufficiency. The Steel Dome project would likely focus on countering aerial threats such as missiles and drones, complementing Türkiye’s existing defense systems like the SİPER long-range SAM system.