Türkiye presents novel anti-missile infrared system PHOTO

The YILDIRIM-100 directional infrared countermeasure (DIRCM) system developed by ASELSAN to defend against surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) will be unveiled for the first time at IDEF 2023.

“YILDIRIM-100 works in integration with various missile warning systems in helicopters and other aerial platforms. The YILDIRIM-100 turret, equipped with high-precision suspension, sends high-power laser energy to an approaching guided missile, blunting the GSN (homing head) and deflecting the missile,” Caliber.Az reports, citing Twitter of SavunmaSanayiST.com.

MANPADS füzelerini kör edecek ASELSAN ürünühttps://t.co/SwoyJod6dY

— SavunmaSanayiST.com (@SavunmaSanayiST) July 15, 2023

The YILDIRIM-100 has a dual turret configuration and each turret uses a synchronized multi-range directional laser against heat-seeking missiles thanks to a precision tracking unit and a laser unit capable of producing powerful lasers.

The system also includes a control unit that controls the DIRCM system and communicates with the missile attack warning system.

Directional infrared countermeasure systems, namely DIRCM, are used to protect air and sea platforms from infrared-guided missiles.

Equipped with a precision gimbal, the systems send high-power laser energy to an incoming missile with infrared or ultraviolet IR/UV guidance. The laser energy dulls the missile's seeker head and causes the missile to move away from the protected platform. DIRCM towers work in integration with various missile attack warning systems and rocket launchers on the platform.

Main characteristics of YILDIRIM-100:

o Multiband laser output;

o Compatible with UV/IR missile warning systems;

o Dual turret configuration for full global protection;

o Fast accurate detection and tracking of threats;

o Work in multiple threat scenarios;

o Generation of high laser energy on the target;

o Small size and weight, low power consumption;

o High availability, low maintenance, and low life cycle cost.

ASELSAN is also developing the YILDIRIM-300, an improved version of the YILDIRIM-100, for the KAAN fighter.