Turkey Unveils Laser Weapon That Destroys Missile Guidance Systems

Turkey’s defense industry flagship, Aselsan, has successfully tested its new Yildirim-100 weapon system, designed to neutralize heat-seeking guided missiles. The system struck targets with pinpoint laser beams that literally burned out the missiles’ guidance mechanisms. According to Aselsan, the system is now ready for combat deployment.

On today’s battlefield, where cheap and ubiquitous drones pose serious threats to aircraft, helicopters, and even other drones, conventional countermeasures like infrared flares are no longer enough. Modern heat-tracking systems simply disregard them. The Yildirim-100 positions itself as a new-generation defense tool—directed infrared countermeasures via laser weaponry that operate autonomously, target in multiple directions, and engage several missiles simultaneously.

The system comprises two core modules: a targeting sensor and a laser emitter. It integrates with an aircraft or drone’s missile warning system (both UV and IR based), allowing for precise and coordinated response to incoming threats. During testing, the system autonomously detected approaching missiles, locked onto their guidance units, and rendered them inoperative.

The Yildirim-100’s key advantages include low power consumption, lightweight construction, and a compact design that fits both new and legacy aircraft platforms. It also complies with NATO interface standards.