ASELSAN Reveals Subsystem-Focused Strategy for Military Autonomous Systems at UMEX 2026.

ASELSAN used UMEX 2026 in Abu Dhabi to present a broad portfolio of sensors, mission payloads, and mission systems designed for unmanned air, surface, and other uncrewed platforms. The approach underscores the company’s growing role as an enabler of military autonomy rather than a manufacturer of complete unmanned vehicles.

At the Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Conference (UMEX) held in Abu Dhabi in January 2026, Turkish defense firm ASELSAN showcased a comprehensive vision for military autonomous systems built around modular subsystems rather than finished platforms. Company representatives emphasized that ASELSAN’s strength lies in providing mission-critical sensors, payloads, and control architectures that can be integrated across unmanned aerial vehicles, unmanned surface vessels, and other uncrewed systems, according to statements made during the exhibition.
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At UMEX 2026, ASELSAN presented a coherent portfolio encompassing sensors, electronic warfare, guided weapons, and unmanned naval systems (Picture source: Army Recognition)

In the field of airborne radar sensors, ASELSAN presented several solutions intended for MALE-class UAVs, light aircraft and unmanned intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) platforms. The MURAD 110-A radar, based on Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology, is designed for fire control and multi-target detection missions. Its electronic scanning capability allows simultaneous tracking of multiple targets while improving resistance to electronic countermeasures. The FULMAR 200-A pod, built around a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), provides high-resolution imaging in all weather conditions, supporting land and maritime surveillance as well as ground moving target detection. Complementing this system, the FULMAR 500-A is optimized for long-range maritime surveillance, enabling detection and classification of surface contacts at extended distances, a capability aligned with unmanned maritime patrol missions.

Electronic warfare represented another key segment of the systems displayed at UMEX 2026. The ANTIDOT family of pods is specifically designed for tactical and operational UAVs. The ANTIDOT 2-U 100, 110 and 120 are compact electronic warfare pods intended for communication jamming and electronic protection of drones operating in contested electromagnetic environments. The ANTIDOT 6-U focuses on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) protection, offering anti-jamming and anti-spoofing functions to secure unmanned platform navigation. The ANTIDOT 2-U/S 100 is positioned as an electronic support solution, capable of detecting, identifying and geolocating radar and radio frequency emissions, contributing to the development of an electromagnetic situational picture. The ANTIDOT 2-U 200 represents a larger variant, suitable for higher-capacity UAVs requiring extended jamming effects.

In the naval domain, ASELSAN highlighted the MARLIN ASV unmanned surface vessel, developed in cooperation with Sefine Shipyard. This monohull platform measures 15 meters in length, reaches a maximum speed of 36 knots and has a displacement of 21.5 tonnes. It is designed for maritime surveillance, critical infrastructure protection and naval operations without onboard crew. Its modular architecture allows integration of radar sensors, electro-optical systems and electronic warfare payloads, illustrating the interoperability between sensors and autonomous platforms emphasized by ASELSAN at UMEX.

ASELSAN showcased at UMEX 2026 a comprehensive portfolio of airborne radar and electronic warfare systems for UAVs, including AESA fire-control radars, SAR-based ISR pods for land and maritime surveillance, and the ANTIDOT family providing jamming, GNSS protection, and electronic support capabilities in contested electromagnetic environments. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The display of guided munitions and guidance kits also reflected the growing integration of precision strike capabilities on unmanned platforms. The TOLUN glide munition is designed to provide stand-off precision strike capability, with guidance suitable for employment from armed UAVs. The HGK-82 and KGK-82 guidance kits convert Mk 82 general-purpose bombs into precision-guided munitions, with the KGK-82 featuring folding wings to extend stand-off range. The SADAK 4T smart pneumatic quad rack enables multiple munitions to be carried on a single platform, increasing payload efficiency for unmanned combat aircraft. The GÖZDE guidance kit, combining inertial, satellite and potentially laser guidance modes, supports accurate engagement from autonomous platforms.

Electro-optical and infrared sensors formed a central part of the portfolio presented. The ASELFLIR 600, 500 and 10 systems cover a wide range of platforms, from MALE UAVs to lighter drones, integrating electro-optical and infrared sensors for reconnaissance, surveillance and target designation. The ASELFLIR 600 is characterized by extended range and advanced stabilization, supporting long-endurance ISR missions. The TOYGUN 100 system complements this range for multi-platform surveillance applications. The KARAT 100, based on an Infrared Search and Track (IRST) architecture, provides passive airborne target detection, allowing unmanned platforms to operate without emitting active radar signals.

Through its presence at UMEX 2026, ASELSAN presented a coherent portfolio encompassing sensors, electronic warfare, guided weapons and unmanned naval systems. This approach reflects the company’s position as a supplier of technological building blocks for uncrewed combat architectures, aligned with the increasing demand for autonomy, electromagnetic resilience and information dominance in contested operational environments.

Written By Erwan Halna du Fretay - Defense Analyst, Army Recognition Group

Erwan Halna du Fretay is a graduate of a Master’s degree in International Relations and has experience in the study of conflicts and global arms transfers. His research interests lie in security and strategic studies, particularly the dynamics of the defense industry, the evolution of military technologies, and the strategic transformation of armed forces.