CATS (Common Aperture Targeting System) is a high-performance electro-optical reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeting system developed by ASELSAN for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), helicopters, aircraft, and other aerial platforms. CATS is especially critical for UAVs, offering advanced imaging and targeting functions by combining multiple optical channels.

General Features and Structural Characteristics

CATS has a common optical aperture with a diameter of 220 mm. This aperture allows for more light intake, providing better image quality and long range. The system includes IR (infrared), HD Day TV, and LL-NIR (Low Light Near-Infrared) cameras, enabling effective imaging even in low-light conditions. With different fields of view and zoom levels, CATS offers users a wide range of viewing options.

In the CATS+ version, the camera's resolution, which was 1920x1080 in the previous CATS system, has been upgraded to 4096x2880, significantly improving image quality. Additionally, AI-based advanced image processing solutions have made target detection and tracking much more precise.

Comprehensive Imaging and Targeting Capability

CATS stands out particularly with its multi-target tracking and simultaneous target tracking capabilities. The system is equipped with a laser target designator and rangefinder, which allow for determining the direction and speed of moving targets, laser designation of targets, and engagement with laser-guided missiles. Furthermore, precise stabilization, an inertial measurement unit, and automatic alignment with the platform make the system extremely accurate in challenging conditions.

CATS can target over a wide area with a 360° continuous coverage angle and an elevation angle that can move between +57° and -105°. Its ability to operate at high altitudes and very low temperatures makes CATS suitable for effective use in all climate conditions.

Technical Specifications and Hardware

CATS features a multispectral optical aperture operating in the 3-5 micron wavelength range, integrating high-resolution IR, HD Day TV, and DI-NIR cameras.

• IR camera resolution: 640x512
• HD Day TV camera resolution: 1920x1080p
• LL-NIR camera resolution: 800x600.
• Laser target designator and rangefinder offer a range of up to 35 km.
• Laser spotter and illuminator work compatibly with night vision devices using the NIR wavelength.

Areas of Use and Operational Capabilities

CATS is primarily used in targeting, reconnaissance, and surveillance. It can effectively perform missions across a wide range of platforms, from unmanned aerial vehicles to helicopters, aircraft, and naval platforms.

ASELSAN began mass production of CATS systems as of 2016 and aimed to increase production speed to 3 units per month starting from 2017, targeting 36 deliveries per year. CATS also replaces the previously in-service AselFLIR-200 system, providing a solution to the maintenance and upkeep problems of older systems.