ASELFLIR-600 is an electro-optical reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeting system developed by ASELSAN for high-altitude long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicles (HALE class UAV/UCAV), attack helicopters, and similar aerial platforms. Developed in line with Turkey's goal of reducing foreign dependency in the defense industry, the system is described as a "game-changer" technology in terms of imaging capability and range.

History and Development Process

In the past, Turkey was largely dependent on foreign sources for electro-optical camera systems used in aerial platforms. Systems imported particularly from Canada were widely used in this area. However, when problems arose in the procurement of these systems, especially with embargoes on UAV systems, ASELSAN developed the CATS, and then the ASELFLIR-500 systems to close this gap.

ASELFLIR-500 achieved great success, being exported to 16 different countries in a short period. Following this, the ASELFLIR-600 was developed, equipped with higher performance and advanced technological components, designed as a superior solution for the Turkish Armed Forces and international users.

Technical Specifications

ASELFLIR-600 is an advanced electro-optical system with a multi-sensor configuration. Its main technical specifications are summarized below:

General Features

Usage Areas: HALE class UAVs, UCAV/TİHA platforms, attack helicopters
Stabilization: Precise stabilization capability
Optical Aperture: 325 mm diameter mirror
Body Dimensions: 655 mm width, 720 mm height (in forward-looking position)
Weight: 120 ± 10% kg
Temperature Resistance:
Operating: -55°C to +55°C
Storage: -55°C to +71°C

Imaging Systems

HD Thermal (IR) Camera:
Resolution: 1280×1024
Wavelength: MWIR
Field of View:
Narrow: 0.55° – 0.85°
Wide: 2.82° – 21.73°
HD Day TV Camera:
Resolution: 1920×1080
Field of View:
Narrow: 0.21° – 0.92°
Wide: 1.51° – 26.38°
HD SWIR Camera:
Resolution: 1280×1024
Field of View: 0.24° – 1.05°

Targeting and Laser Systems

Laser Rangefinder and Target Designator:
Laser Type: Diode-pumped ND:YAG
Wavelength: 1064 nm
Range: Up to 35 km
Frequency: Up to 20 Hz
Coding: STANAG 3733 Band I & II
Laser Pointer:
Wavelength: NIR/SWIR (night vision compatible)
Trackers and Markers:
Laser Spot Tracker (LST)
Laser Pointer/Illuminator (LPI)

Coverage Angle

Azimuth (Pan): 360° continuous rotation
Elevation (Tilt): +95° to -120°

Communication

Interfaces: RS-422, MIL-STD-1553B

Strategic Importance and Areas of Use

The fact that ASELFLIR-600 is a system developed for use on aerial platforms such as UCAVs, TİHAs, and helicopters makes it a strategic tool for both internal security and external operations. Thanks to its advanced features, such as long-range laser designation and multi-target tracking, it can perform target identification, tracking, and guidance tasks with high accuracy.

Through the export of the system, Turkey aims to gain a foothold in the international market and strengthen its goal of technological leadership in the defense industry.

Future Outlook

ASELSAN positions ASELFLIR-600 not merely as a camera system but as an integrated technological component ensuring national security. The mass production phase will commence after the system's flight tests, and the system is expected to enter the TAF inventory and be exported abroad in the coming years.

ASELFLIR-600