Türkiye’s electronic warfare systems boost defense, but challenges remain
While these developments mark a significant leap forward, experts caution that Türkiye still faces technological gaps compared to the world’s top EW powers
ANKARA, Türkiye (MNTV) – Türkiye’s advancements in electronic warfare (EW) are redefining its defense strategies, bolstering its military effectiveness across multiple conflict zones.
While these developments mark a significant leap forward, experts caution that Türkiye still faces technological gaps compared to the world’s top EW powers.
As warfare increasingly shifts to the electronic domain, EW has emerged as a silent yet decisive factor in modern military engagements.
Beyond its renowned combat drones and conventional military platforms, Türkiye has made significant strides in deploying indigenous EW systems for cross-border counterterrorism operations and broader military engagements.
These systems, which employ jamming, deception, and rapid response capabilities, have been battle-tested in Syria, Libya, northern Iraq, and Nagorno-Karabakh, proving their effectiveness in real-world combat scenarios.
Recognizing the strategic importance of EW, Türkiye has ramped up development efforts over the past decade. Haluk Görgün, head of the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB), highlighted the role of EW in modern warfare, stating, “We observe how the use of electronic warfare-resistant communication devices can be superior and how fast-moving forces can create devastating effects.”
Among Türkiye’s most notable EW achievements are the KORAL, VURAL (REDET-II), and SERHAT systems, which have significantly enhanced the Turkish Armed Forces’ (TSK) ability to counter hostile radars and improve battlefield effectiveness.
Developed by Aselsan, a leading Turkish defense electronics firm, KORAL is a transportable, land-based EW system that includes both electronic support (ES) and electronic attack (EA) components.
It gained prominence during Operation Spring Shield in Idlib, Syria, where it successfully jammed Russian-made Pantsir S-1 air defense systems, enabling Turkish drones to strike with precision. KORAL also played a pivotal role in Azerbaijan’s liberation of Nagorno-Karabakh by coordinating effectively with Bayraktar TB2 drones.
VURAL, another key system, is a dual-component platform specializing in electronic support and attack. It can identify radar parameters, assess threats, and execute advanced jamming and deception techniques. With its wide frequency coverage and rapid response capabilities, VURAL has been instrumental in Türkiye’s cross-border military operations.
SERHAT, also developed by Aselsan, is a specialized radar system designed to detect and track mortar fire with 360-degree scanning capabilities. It has been extensively used in anti-terror operations, including Euphrates Shield and Olive Branch, reducing casualties and enhancing operational efficiency.
Türkiye’s EW portfolio also includes systems like Sancak (MILKAR), SÖKMEN, PUHU, and SEYMEN, each designed for specific operational needs.
However, despite these advancements, Türkiye still faces challenges in competing with the United States, China, and Russia, which have integrated sophisticated EW capabilities across land, air, and sea domains.
As the nature of warfare evolves, controlling the electronic spectrum remains a critical factor in achieving battlefield superiority.
Türkiye’s continued investment in EW technology has strengthened its military capabilities and provided a strategic edge in regional operations.