In a historic leap forward for defense technology, Turkey has officially introduced a new mobile laser truck capable of destroying hostile drones from over 1 mile away. This revolutionary weapon system, named GÖKBERK, is designed to combat the rising threat of UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) and enhance national airspace security. Developed by Aselsan, Turkey’s premier defense contractor, GÖKBERK marks a monumental advancement in directed-energy weapons and is now integrated into the country’s growing “Steel Dome” air defense network.
What Is GÖKBERK?
GÖKBERK is an AI-powered laser defense system mounted on a high-mobility truck. It can track, lock onto, and destroy drones using a high-energy laser beam. Unlike traditional anti-aircraft systems that rely on missiles or bullets, GÖKBERK utilizes focused light to burn through enemy drones, eliminating threats silently and without explosive damage.
Key Capabilities and Features
- Range: Can destroy targets at over 1.2 miles (2 kilometers).
- Precision: Uses advanced sensors and targeting algorithms to track low-flying, fast-moving FPV drones.
- Energy-Based: Uses no physical ammunition, reducing cost per engagement to almost zero.
- AI-Controlled: Incorporates machine learning to autonomously select, prioritize, and eliminate threats.
- Mobility: Fully transportable on a military-grade truck, enabling rapid deployment in any terrain.
- Integration: Linked into Turkey’s broader “Steel Dome” integrated defense system, working alongside radar, jamming, and kinetic interception systems.
Why Laser Weapons Are the Future
As drones become smaller, cheaper, and deadlier, traditional air defense systems face growing challenges. Laser weapons offer several key advantages:
- Speed of light targeting with zero lag time.
- Unlimited “ammunition” as long as power supply is sustained.
- Silent, stealthy takedowns with no explosion or collateral damage.
- Perfect for urban and strategic site protection, including airports, government buildings, and energy infrastructure.
Combat Performance and Testing
During recent field trials, GÖKBERK successfully:
- Shot down multiple FPV drones in live flight scenarios.
- Functioned seamlessly in both day and night conditions.
- Maintained tracking in high-wind and cluttered environments.
The system has now entered limited production with dozens of units already deployed along Turkey’s border regions and sensitive installations.
Turkey’s “Steel Dome” Air Defense Strategy
Much like Israel’s Iron Dome, Turkey is building its own multilayered air defense umbrella called the Steel Dome. GÖKBERK plays a key role in the low-altitude, short-range defense layer, complementing:
- SİPER: Long-range missile system.
- KORKUT: Medium-range anti-aircraft platform.
- EIRS: National radar network.
With GÖKBERK integrated, Turkey now possesses one of the most complete and modern multi-layered air defense systems in the region.
Geopolitical Implications
Turkey’s unveiling of this capability sends a powerful signal to allies and adversaries alike. It demonstrates:
- Self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing.
- Readiness to counter modern drone warfare threats.
- The potential for exporting high-end defense tech to friendly nations.
International Response and Export Potential
Countries across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa have already shown interest in acquiring GÖKBERK. Aselsan has confirmed that:
- Talks are underway with Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and Qatar.
- Export versions may be modified for civilian airport security and border patrol applications.
AI-Powered Targeting Precision
GÖKBERK’s real-time data processing enables adaptive targeting against swarm attacks, offering future-proof defense in increasingly autonomous combat environments, while ensuring rapid decision-making through enhanced AI-driven analytics.
Cost-Efficiency Compared to Conventional Systems
Unlike expensive missiles or interceptor systems, GÖKBERK delivers low-cost-per-shot defense, making it scalable for broader national deployment, ensuring cost-effective protection against evolving threats, while maintaining high operational efficiency in diverse combat scenarios.
Potential for Naval and Aerial Platforms
Engineers are exploring ways to install GÖKBERK or its variant onto naval ships and airborne surveillance drones, extending its defensive envelope and enabling multi-platform integration for enhanced situational awareness and rapid response capabilities.
Public Reaction and National Pride
Turkish citizens and defense enthusiasts have celebrated the unveiling, seeing it as a milestone in national independence and scientific progress, while reinforcing Turkey’s position as a key player in global defense innovation.
Future Upgrades and Global Collaboration
Aselsan is collaborating with universities and allied nations to develop future iterations with stronger beam intensity, faster recharge, and enhanced weather resistance, ensuring robust performance in diverse and challenging operational environments.
Cybersecurity and Electronic Warfare Integration
The system is designed with hardened cybersecurity measures to protect it from jamming, spoofing, and remote takeover attempts. GÖKBERK also features built-in EW capabilities for detecting and suppressing drone control frequencies.
Tactical Applications Beyond Drones
Future versions of GÖKBERK may be adapted to neutralize:
- Small rockets and mortar shells.
- Enemy surveillance optics and electro-optical payloads.
- Lightly armored ground vehicles or comm towers.
Global Interest from Defense Alliances
Representatives from NATO and OIC defense summits have observed GÖKBERK demonstrations, raising speculation about joint research opportunities or tech licensing deals, potentially fostering international collaboration and strengthening defense partnerships.
Training and Tactical Doctrines in Development
Turkey is now conducting nationwide training exercises for GÖKBERK operators and commanders, refining doctrines on:
- Rapid laser deployment.
- Command integration with manned patrols.
- Real-time inter-service threat communication.
Conclusion
The arrival of GÖKBERK marks a turning point in how nations defend against evolving aerial threats. With laser technology now combat-proven, Turkey has entered a new chapter in warfare readiness.
As laser weapons like GÖKBERK move from science fiction to reality, the rules of engagement in modern conflicts will never be the same again.
