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Türkiye's Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) head Haluk Gorgun shared new details on the nation’s AI-integrated "Steel Dome" air defense system, designed to detect and neutralize threats from the longest possible range using multi-layered, synchronized components.
Speaking at the "Saha Sohbetleri" event hosted by SAHA Istanbul on Wednesday, Gorgun said the Steel Dome system is not only a defense platform but also a "comprehensive doctrine of integrated defense."
"The system is designed with artificial intelligence-supported decision-support mechanisms to detect and neutralize threats from the maximum range," Gorgun stated. "When a threat is detected, the most suitable response scenario is generated and relayed to the appropriate unit in real time."
Gorgun noted that the core of the command-and-control architecture consists of an AI-powered network that enables all elements to operate under a unified air picture.
The system integrates various range-layer components, including Siper, Hisar A+ and O+, Korkut and Sungur systems under a single command and control architecture. Radars, electro-optical sensors, signal jammers, and laser systems will also form part of this comprehensive structure.
At the center of the Steel Dome command and control architecture lies an AI-supported system where all components communicate through a common air picture, Gorgun explained.
"Thanks to this structure, when a threat is detected, the most appropriate intervention scenario is created and transmitted to the relevant unit in a timely manner," he stated.
"The decision-support structure plays a critical role in terms of speed and accuracy. In this system, not only human decisions but also artificial intelligence-based algorithms come into play," he added.
He emphasized that the system reflects coordination over mere coexistence: "It symbolizes working 'together' rather than 'side by side'."
Gorgun emphasized that all components within the system are produced domestically, highlighting the strategic advantage of indigenous development.
"If we had purchased all these systems from different countries, interoperability would have been a major engineering problem, but we are bringing together systems from the same engineering culture," he said.
The SSB's approach focuses on both product development and strategy, integration, and sustainable ecosystem creation. "Hundreds of subcontractors are involved in these systems, and mechanisms like a 21% SME participation mandate and a 2% localization share ensure sustainability," he added.
Looking toward sixth-generation warfare environments, Gorgun outlined plans for sensor fusion-centered concepts where manned and unmanned systems operate together.
"Projects like Kizilelma, Anka-3, Hurjet, and KAAN will be integral parts of this ecosystem," he added.
He also highlighted that over half of Türkiye's defense exports are directed to NATO and EU countries. To support alliance coordination, SSB has established a dedicated NATO relations office.
At a June 26 briefing at Land Forces Command, Türkiye's Ministry of National Defense confirmed that the Steel Dome would be deployed nationwide.
"We plan to spread the layered air defense system nationwide by investing in our Steel Dome system as a priority," Defense Ministry sources stated.
Officials also said investments were being made in hypersonic, ballistic, and cruise missile systems, naval platforms, next-generation aircraft carriers, and unmanned systems across all domains.
Türkiye currently exceeds NATO's 2% defense spending target and remains one of the top five troop contributors to NATO missions.
"As a responsible and reliable NATO member, Türkiye fully meets all capability targets and continues to keep its armed forces ready in accordance with Article 3 of the Washington Treaty," said Defense Ministry officials.
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