Türkiye is crossing another strategic milestone in its pursuit of defense independence. According to ASELSAN CEO Ahmet Akyol, the SİPER air defense system is set to become fully operational in 2024, significantly strengthening the nation’s ability to counter long-range and high-altitude threats. Developed in collaboration with ASELSAN, TÜBİTAK SAGE, Roketsan, and thousands of local SMEs, the SİPER project represents the missing piece in Türkiye’s air defense architecture.

The system is designed to provide effective protection against aerial threats at multiple altitude levels, from low to high. With its layered defense capability, SİPER will shield Türkiye’s borders, airspace, and critical infrastructure from aircraft, missiles, and UAVs. Akyol highlighted that Türkiye’s localization efforts in radar systems, munitions, seeker heads, and electro-optics have significantly boosted the country’s defense autonomy, with SİPER standing as one of the clearest examples of this achievement.

ASELSAN’s efforts extend well beyond air defense. Projects such as the MARLIN unmanned surface vessel, the DERİNGÖZ reconnaissance system, the TUNGA ground vehicle, and the ERTUNGA unmanned combat vehicle demonstrate the company’s wide-ranging capabilities across land, air, and sea platforms. These initiatives support Türkiye’s ambition to become a global leader in unmanned systems.

Another notable achievement lies in ASELSAN’s ability to transfer defense technologies into the civilian domain. Innovative solutions, such as the high-speed weight measurement system, are already being applied to civil infrastructure projects—showcasing ASELSAN’s impact not only in defense but also in Türkiye’s broader technological development.

As Türkiye’s new shield in the skies, the SİPER air defense system will stand as one of the most advanced indigenously developed solutions, significantly enhancing the country’s strategic deterrence.