Ahmet Akyol, President & CEO ASELSAN

IN this exclusive interview, Asian Defence Journal sat down with Engin Aykol, general manager and CEO of ASELSAN.

ADJ: ASELSAN has an expanding presence in South Asia. Could you share the company’s strategic goals in Pakistan and how you envision ASELSAN supporting Pakistan’s defence requirements?

AA: ASELSAN’s expanding presence in South Asia, particularly in Pakistan, is a significant strategic initiative, reflecting ASELSAN’s commitment to strengthening defence and security partnerships in the region. ASELSAN has the privilege to be in the service of the Pakistani Armed Forces for over three decades with its solutions in electronic warfare, radar, military communication, electro-optic and naval systems. ASELSAN aims to contribute to the enhancement of Pakistan’s defence capabilities by leveraging its expertise in military engineering, production and technology transfer.

A few key factors are being focused on to support Pakistan’s defence requirements. These include enhancing its indigenous defence production through various collaborative models, as well as strengthening defence modernisation programmes by providing cutting-edge technologies. Ensuring that Pakistan’s armed forces are equipped with the latest and most reliable systems is also a priority. Furthermore, efficient logistical support is provided to ensure the Army has the necessary logistical support they need for operational maintenance.

ADJ: What are the primary technologies ASELSAN is showcasing at IDEAS 2024? Are there any innovations or new products aimed specifically at meeting the needs of the Pakistani Armed Forces?

AA: At IDEAS 2024, we are showcasing the examples of our cutting-edge technology from all our major operational fields including Radar and Electronic Warfare, Military Communication Systems, Electro-optics, UAV payloads, Air Defence, Avionics, Integrated Naval Combat suite and Intrusion detection systems.

One of our standout products in the electro-optics field is undoubtedly our ASELFLIR-500 electro-optical reconnaissance, surveillance and targeting system. Designed for MALE and HALE class UAVs, fixed-wing platforms, and rotary-wing platforms; ASELFLIR-500, which is in the inventory of the Turkish Armed Forces and is in serial production, attracts great interest from other countries due to its superior performance. ASELFLIR-500 offers superior imaging performance over its international competitors and unique features for UAVs, making it one of the most preferred UAV cameras worldwide.

Our AESA nose radar MURAD 110-A is a highly capable system designed for both manned and unmanned aircrafts. Currently developed by only a few countries, the AESA nose radar has substantial export potential. We designed MURAD 110-A to provide considerable capability gains to the aircraft with its simultaneous air-air and air-ground missions, multiple target detection/tracking, beyond-visual missile guidance, high-resolution ground image creation and electronic warfare functions. 

Our naval AESA radar CENK 400-N, designed for quick response and high performance, offers tracking of multiple targets, supports missile and gun targeting and adapts quickly to new threats. With electronic protection and stabilisation features provided by its GaN AESA architecture, CENK 400-N ensures reliable operation in challenging conditions, making it a valuable asset for naval defence.

ADJ: ASELSAN has built various partnerships within the region. Could you elaborate on any recent collaborative projects with Pakistani defence entities or plans for local production and technology transfer?

AA: ASELSAN takes a forward-looking approach to the Pakistani defence market, aligning with strategic priorities and fostering long-term partnerships. Over the years, we have built local expertise by providing technical training to Pakistani engineers and military personnel, empowering them to use advanced defence systems confidently.

A prime example of our commitment is the technology transfer programme launched in 2010 with the National Radio Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC) for 4700 series radios. Through this partnership, we have proudly supported the Pakistan Armed Forces with over 50,000 radios. Building on this success, we are optimistic about expanding our collaboration with Pakistani defence companies and exploring new joint initiatives for the future.

ADJ: ASELSAN is a leader in advanced electronics and digital solutions for defence. How is the company adapting its solutions for the digitalisation of battlefield operations, particularly in areas like communication systems, electronic warfare and tactical C4ISR?

AA: ASELSAN is advancing battlefield digitalisation by leveraging its expertise in defence electronics and an innovative approach to developing technologies for modern operations. In communication systems, electronic warfare and tactical C4ISR, ASELSAN invests heavily in research and development, partnering with leading universities and research institutions to ensure solutions remain at the cutting edge. This commitment enables us to address evolving battlefield requirements with adaptable, forward-thinking digital solutions.

By integrating artificial intelligence into its systems, ASELSAN enhances sensor data processing, enabling precise target identification, classification and tracking, as well as decision support for autonomous land and naval platforms. In production, ASELSAN is adopting artificial intelligence for efficient material tracking, capacity planning and automated decision-making, boosting operational effectiveness and minimising human dependency. Robotic automation and Internet of Things (IoT) applications provide real-time data for enhanced tracking of production workflows and resources. 

A key strength behind ASELSAN’s success is undoubtedly our talented, young workforce, with an average age of 32. We are consistently recognised as the most desired company to work by engineering students and professionals in Turkiye.

ADJ: Looking ahead, what are ASELSAN’s goals for expanding its export markets, particularly in Asia? How does ASELSAN plan to build on its success to contribute to the growth of Turkiye’s defence industry in the international arena?

AA: ASELSAN ranks 42nd on the Defense News Top 100 list of the world’s largest defence companies, a testament to its export-oriented growth strategy. This success is part of the broader achievements of the Turkish defence industry, which has seen a significant rise in the number of firms listed on the Defense News Top 100. ASELSAN takes pride in contributing to this growth, signing export deals worth over US$500 million in the first nine months of 2024.

ASELSAN is dedicated to expanding its presence in Asia, a key market for our growth. Our focus is on building partnerships, increasing visibility and showcasing our range of advanced solutions to potential users across the region. To support this, we are establishing a strong local presence, both through joint ventures and regional offices, as part of our global expansion strategy. Our goal is to address the region’s evolving security and defence needs with our innovative technologies, while also creating mutual benefits for the local partners we work alongside.