Türkiye Tests YILDIRIM-100 Laser Against Anti-Aircraft Missiles

The Turkish company Aselsan has successfully conducted tests of its cutting-edge YILDIRIM-100 Directed Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM) System.

During these trials, the system showcased its impressive capability to effectively target and neutralize infrared-guided missiles, including both air-to-air and surface-to-air types.

To highlight its real-world performance, Aselsan has also released a demonstration video, confirming the system’s effectiveness in operational conditions.

As seen in the footage, YILDIRIM-100 quickly detects missile launches and automatically directs a powerful laser to destroy the missile’s seeker head.

This allows the missile’s trajectory to be altered, preventing it from hitting its target, which could be aircraft, helicopters, or drones.

The system operates fully automatically and provides 360-degree coverage around the protected object.

YILDIRIM-100 is designed to protect aerial platforms in combat zones, where low-cost yet highly effective missile threats have become increasingly frequent.

In modern conflicts, such systems play a crucial role in enhancing the survivability of aircraft.

Once deployed, YILDIRIM-100 is expected to provide the Turkish Air Force with a powerful tool to counter missile threats.

This will significantly enhance the safety of military aviation, especially during combat missions.

The system also includes a control unit that works in conjunction with a missile warning system, ensuring a coordinated and immediate response to threats.

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom is already placing orders for its first DragonFire laser directed-energy weapon (LDEW).