Breaking News
ASELSAN Develops Advanced Laser Defense with Mobile GÖKBERK System to Counter Growing Drone Threat.
On March 10, 2025, ASELSAN confirmed the effectiveness of its GÖKBERK mobile laser weapon system during recent tests. The system demonstrated its ability to detect, automatically track and neutralize FPV drones, which have become an increasing threat in modern conflicts. Across different operational scenarios, GÖKBERK proved its rapid engagement time and high precision, key characteristics for its integration into Türkiye’s national air defense system, Steel Dome.
In this context, ASELSAN has developed GÖKBERK, a mobile laser system designed to eliminate small and medium-sized drones (Picture source: Aselsan)
Recent conflicts have highlighted the effectiveness of low-cost drones, particularly kamikaze and FPV models, used by both conventional armies and non-state actors. In Ukraine, the Middle East, and Africa, these systems have shown their ability to bypass traditional air defense systems and inflict significant damage on ground forces and critical infrastructure. In response to these emerging threats, several countries are investing in modernizing their air defense systems by incorporating technologies capable of engaging small, low-signature targets quickly. The adoption of laser weapons is driven by several factors: their significantly lower engagement cost compared to traditional missiles, near-instantaneous response time, and the ability to operate continuously without the need for ammunition resupply. These characteristics position directed energy weapons as a strategic solution for protecting military bases, command centers, airports, and other sensitive infrastructure.
In this context, ASELSAN has developed GÖKBERK, a mobile laser system designed to eliminate small and medium-sized drones. Its effectiveness was recently demonstrated in tests where it successfully neutralized FPV drones in various operational scenarios. Designed as a key component of Türkiye’s Steel Dome air defense system, GÖKBERK is distinguished by its ability to respond swiftly to threats with optimized targeting precision. Integrated onto a 6x6 mobile platform, the system combines a laser weapon with a minimum power of 5 kW with radar and electro-optical sensors, enabling automated target detection and tracking. Its guidance system, enhanced by artificial intelligence algorithms, maximizes targeting efficiency based on operational conditions.
GÖKBERK operates with a dual-threat neutralization capability. It can conduct physical destruction of targets through its high-power laser, providing an immediate “hard kill” effect against detected drones. Additionally, it features an electronic disruption capability via ASELSAN’s Kangal jammer, which interferes with enemy drone communications and sensors, rendering them inoperative through a “soft kill” approach. This combination enables it to address a broad spectrum of threats, ranging from kamikaze drones to mini-UAVs equipped with explosive payloads.
The system has been designed for high operational autonomy. With its advanced cooling technology, GÖKBERK can function continuously without performance degradation, making it particularly suited for prolonged use in the defense of fixed sites such as military bases, power plants, ports, and oil refineries. Unlike conventional defense systems that require ammunition replenishment, GÖKBERK offers a near-unlimited firing capacity, making it a cost-effective solution for armed forces. Additionally, its modular architecture allows for future upgrades, including increased laser power and integration into broader networked defense systems. ASELSAN continues to refine the system by analyzing test data collected under various weather conditions to further enhance its capabilities.
Investment in directed energy weapons reflects a strategic shift in how airborne threats are addressed by defense industries. Traditional systems, relying on missiles and anti-aircraft guns, while still relevant, face limitations in countering swarms of low-cost drones and mass drone attacks. As a result, states are seeking more flexible solutions capable of engaging multiple targets quickly and at lower costs. Similar projects to GÖKBERK are also being developed in the United States, Europe, and Asia, where multiple laser weapon programs are underway for integration into land, naval, and aerial platforms. Türkiye, through ASELSAN, aims to strengthen its strategic autonomy and develop advanced solutions in the field of counter-drone defense.
GÖKBERK aligns with a global trend of leveraging laser technologies to counter the rapid evolution of asymmetric threats. By combining electronic disruption and physical destruction capabilities, ASELSAN provides a comprehensive solution for securing strategic sites and enhancing force protection. As testing continues and further improvements are planned, the GÖKBERK system represents a significant step toward a new generation of directed energy-based counter-drone systems.