From containerised close-in weapon systems to deployable vertical-launch missile defense, ASELSAN is adapting proven naval technologies to address emerging security needs, including the protection of civilian vessels navigating critical maritime chokepoints.
Sponsored by
Naval security requirements can change faster than ships can be built or upgraded. Commercial vessels passing through sensitive straits, offshore assets and other critical maritime infrastructure may face elevated risks without having been designed around military-grade self-defence systems. Providing protection in these circumstances calls for more than conventional shipboard integration. It requires solutions that can be deployed quickly, operate independently where necessary and move to another location when the mission changes.
At EURONAVAL, ASELSAN is presenting deployable configurations of two of its naval air-defence systems, GÖKDENİZ and GÖKSUR VLS. The concept extends the use of established defence technologies beyond their traditional installation on military vessels, opening potential applications for a wider range of platforms and maritime security requirements.
GÖKDENİZ: Proven Close-In Defence, New Deployment Options
GÖKDENİZ is ASELSAN’s Close-In Weapon System (CIWS), a field-proven naval version of KORKUT air defense system, developed to protect naval platforms against anti-ship missiles, aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles and unmanned surface threats. Its established naval configuration combines twin 35mm guns, a three-dimensional search radar and an integrated tracking platform, enabling autonomous target detection, tracking and engagement.
The system’s high rate of fire, reaching 1,100 rounds per minute, is complemented by ASELSAN’s 35mm ATOM airburst ammunition. Rather than relying solely on a direct hit, ATOM detonates in front of the target to create a cloud of fragments along its path. This approach supports effective engagements while helping limit ammunition expenditure. GÖKDENİZ can also accommodate high-explosive incendiary ammunition, with its automatic linkless ammunition feed mechanism allowing operators to select the appropriate ammunition type for different threats.
The system builds on ASELSAN’s experience with the KORKUT close-range air-defence system, whose field-proven capabilities provide a foundation for the naval application. GÖKDENİZ has already been selected for military naval platforms, including frigates. Its deployable configuration introduces a different proposition: bringing close-in protection to vessels and sites that may not have a permanently installed naval weapon system.
Housed in a container with its own generator and climate-controlled operator workspace, the configuration can operate independently of the host platform. Dedicated mounting equipment allows it to be installed on a compatible vessel or critical facility, then removed and transported when its task is complete.
For commercial shipping, this creates a potential route to temporary, mission-specific protection during higher-risk transits. It also illustrates how an established military capability can be adapted for new operational settings without requiring every vessel to be designed around a permanent installation.
GÖKSUR VLS: Taking Missile Defence Beyond Conventional Installation
Where GÖKDENİZ provides gun-based close-in defence, GÖKSUR VLS offers a missile-based layer against airborne threats. Developed by ASELSAN for naval self-defence, the system is designed to counter threats including sea-skimming anti-ship missiles, cruise missiles, aircraft, helicopters and UAVs.
GÖKSUR VLS uses a modular vertical-launch architecture that supports different installation arrangements, including distributed or multiple launchers and above-deck or below-deck configurations. The system is designed to provide 360-degree air-defence coverage, with a stated effective range of up to 15km. Its fire-control system incorporates AI-enabled features and supports the engagement of multiple targets. The guided missile combines a next-generation imaging infrared seeker with datalink-assisted guidance, encrypted bidirectional datalink and thrust-vector control. Together with its high manoeuvrability and short reaction time, these features are intended to support engagements in demanding maritime conditions.
Presenting GÖKSUR VLS in a deployable concept extends the same operational thinking applied to GÖKDENİZ. Rather than limiting the discussion to permanent integration aboard purpose-built warships, ASELSAN is exploring how missile-based protection can be made available through flexible installation concepts. The precise configuration and integration requirements will, of course, depend on the host platform and the intended mission.
Where GÖKDENİZ provides gun-based close-in defence, GÖKSUR VLS offers a missile-based layer against airborne threats. Developed by ASELSAN for naval self-defence, the system is designed to counter threats including sea-skimming anti-ship missiles, cruise missiles, aircraft, helicopters and UAVs.
GÖKSUR VLS uses a modular vertical-launch architecture that supports different installation arrangements, including distributed or multiple launchers and above-deck or below-deck configurations. The system is designed to provide 360-degree air-defence coverage, with a stated effective range of up to 15km. Its fire-control system incorporates AI-enabled features and supports the engagement of multiple targets. The guided missile combines a next-generation imaging infrared seeker with datalink-assisted guidance, encrypted bidirectional datalink and thrust-vector control. Together with its high manoeuvrability and short reaction time, these features are intended to support engagements in demanding maritime conditions.
Presenting GÖKSUR VLS in a deployable concept extends the same operational thinking applied to GÖKDENİZ. Rather than limiting the discussion to permanent integration aboard purpose-built warships, ASELSAN is exploring how missile-based protection can be made available through flexible installation concepts. The precise configuration and integration requirements will, of course, depend on the host platform and the intended mission.
A Faster Response to Changing Maritime Risks
The significance of these concepts lies in the way they broaden the potential use of established naval technologies. GÖKDENİZ and GÖKSUR VLS address different engagement requirements, but both demonstrate the value of adapting proven systems to new deployment models.
For navies, this flexibility can support different platform architectures and installation needs. For commercial operators and critical infrastructure stakeholders, it points towards new ways of addressing temporary security requirements in exposed maritime areas, subject to the necessary platform integration, operational arrangements and applicable regulations.
ASELSAN’s approach reflects a wider shift in naval defence: the ability to respond to an immediate operational need can matter as much as the capability of the system itself. By combining mature weapon technologies with modular, transportable configurations, the company is seeking to make advanced naval air defence more adaptable to the realities of modern maritime security.
