Ideal Match for Mobile Armoured Counter Drone Requirements;  ROKETSAN-FNSS will Showcase the ALKA-KAPLAN HYBRID Directed Energy Weapon System (DEWS) Platform  at IDEF 2025

The ALKA-KAPLAN, a combination of future technologies, a Directed Energy Weapon System and a Hybrid Carrier Platform, will be showcased to visitors at IDEF.

The modern battlefield is rapidly evolving with the advent of technological innovations, presenting new challenges for ground units, tanks and armoured vehicles as they confront the increasing threats posed by drones and loitering munitions. Drones, with their advanced payloads and extended ranges, are redefining the rules of engagement, necessitating the development of effective defence systems against these threats. In this context, mechanized and armoured units require mobile armoured anti-drone systems with the same manoeuvrability as tanks, armoured combat vehicles, and other mechanized elements to ensure effective defence during operations. In response to this need, a collaboration between ROKETSAN and FNSS has successfully integrated the ALKA Directed Energy Weapon System (ALKA DEWS), capable of detecting and neutralizing fixed-wing and rotary-wing mini/micro unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and loitering munitions, into the KAPLAN HYBRID vehicle. This marks the inception of a new-generation mobile armoured anti-drone system.

In this context, the KAPLAN HYBRID Powerpack, program development began in 2021 and technological demonstration prototype was exhibited at IDEF 2023. The system has been developed as a unique hybrid powerpack solution that can be integrated into potential future tracked vehicle platforms within the FNSS product range, as well as other tracked vehicle families in need of modernization and life extension programs. Having completed mobility and verification tests, KAPLAN HYBRID now prepared to meet operational needs with various mission equipment in its combat configuration. The platform will be paired with the robustly designed ALKA Directed Energy Weapon System (ALKA DEWS), one of the most effective solutions against drone threats developed by ROKETSAN.  The system will be showcased at the ROKETSAN booth at IDEF 2025.

ROKETSAN continues to develop Directed Energy Weapon Systems (DEWS), which form the basis of future weapon systems, locally and nationally, with artificial intelligence-supported detection/tracking algorithms and user-friendly interfaces to show the highest impact in the shortest time possible, and to add them to the inventory of our security forces.

ALKA DEWS is a two-layered, very close-in hybrid air defence system that enables the interception (soft kill) of asymmetric threats with an Electromagnetic Jamming Weapon and the destruction (hard kill) of them with a Laser Weapon. Offering various system solutions to its users based on need, ALKA enables the interception/elimination of threats such as jam-resistant Fixed and Rotary Wing Mini/Micro Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Loitering Munitions, and Swarm UAVs, equipped with various payloads such as cameras and explosives, and equipped with various guidance solutions (such as autopilot and image-aided navigation systems), beyond their effective range. ALKA DEWS is also used for the destruction/neutralization of bomb traps that could be used in residential areas, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) placed on roadside, and unexploded ordnance.

The diesel generator unit, which provides the electrical power required for the electric drive system, was designed by FNSS and integrated into the vehicle. The diesel generator unit generates the required electricity by operating in the speed-torque range where it is most efficient. The high-kilowatt power generation unit meets the vehicle's mobility requirements while also providing the high-voltage electrical power required by next-generation weapons like ALKA without the need to transport an additional power unit. ALKA DEWS stands out as the most cost-effective defence system against asymmetric threats, and ROKETSAN continues to continuously develop new and progressive products and related sub-technologies. Furthermore, efforts to establish a nationwide ecosystem for the development of these advanced sub-technologies are ongoing.

Capable of offering threat prioritization and solutions based on various deployment options (fixed, portable, and mobile), the ALKLA DEWS demonstrates a performance-effective approach with various laser power sources, sensor sets (radar, electro-optical system), and various technological solutions (ALKA DEWS, ALKA NEW). It offers users a wide range of applications through integration with various platforms. The silent driving extended silent tracking, and the ability to add next-generation weapon systems with high energy requirements, enabling the vehicle's use in combat and reconnaissance scenarios, combined with the future-proof ROKETSAN ALKA system, have become an effective Directed Energy Weapon System Platform.

FNSS has always placed great importance on the development of indigenous design and development of new generation drive systems, suspension systems, gearboxes and powertrains in line with the development and adaptation of new generation technologies for armoured combat vehicles. Through sustainable innovation efforts carried out at the FNSS R&D Center, the company has achieved significant breakthroughs.

The system eliminates the need for a separate generator for a high-energy system, allowing the generator used for vehicle propulsion to also be used for weapon systems or other mission equipment. Furthermore, when the generator unit is not in active use, it provides the KAPLAN HYBRID vehicle with over a 10% additional operational range.

The powerpack architecture and all subsystems used in the KAPLAN HYBRID Project were specified, carefully selected, designed and brought into production by FNSS engineers. The imported subsystems initially identified were developed and projected with local solution partners for deployment in serial production. With this project, FNSS also aimed to provide a reliable alternative solution to tracked vehicle transmissions, which are heavily dependent on limited number of manufacturers. With systems such as the indigenously designed and developed cross-drive gearbox, FNSS has become one of the few companies with the technological competence to develop this system.

Developed for tracked vehicles weighing up to 20 tons GVW, this solution can be adapted to new tracked vehicle production programs and modernization programs based on user requirements. As interest in hybrid tracked vehicle development continues to grow, FNSS maintains its leading position domestically and will continue to lead in international markets.