ASELSAN shared a video of the GÖKBERK laser weapon system featuring a more mobile and better protected configuration on BMC’s AMAZON 4x4 armoured vehicle.
Previously, GÖKBERK was integrated on BMC’s 6x6 truck in a palletised configuration. Compared to a 6x6 truck, AMAZON offers better ballistic and mine protection in addition to mobility advantages.
Unlike the truck-mounted/palletised configuration, GÖKBERK’s 4x4 vehicle configuration lacks the AURA 100-G UAV detection radar, which provides detection at longer ranges with constant scan in addition to GÖKBERK’s optics on the turret. Also, the turret used for the 4x4 vehicle appears to lack some of the optical systems from the baseline laser turet, hinting at a “Lite” configuration in the end.
A more mobile GÖKBERK in a smaller frame can be more easily deployed to protect convoys or nearby infantry units, which might be exposed to UAV threats, especially in today’s battlefield conditions.
GÖKBERK Laser Weapon System
GÖKBERK covers the C-UAS layer within the Steel Dome integrated air defence system, alongside ŞAHİN 40 mm airburst grenade launcher and İHTAR jammer.
The system demonstrated its capability to shoot down a DJI Phantom rotary-wing UAV at a range of 1.5 km and mini-class fixed-wing UAVs at 1.2 km. Additionally, the laser managed to penetrate a six-millimetre-thick steel plate at a distance of 600 m.
It is worth mentioning that ASELSAN is working on higher power output to increase the effective hard-kill range and affect more hardened targets.
While laser weapons are envisioned for C-UAS use in the short term, changes like higher power output and integration of more capable sensors are expected to elevate them to countering RAM threats and cruise missiles in the future.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor: Özgür Ekşi
