Turkey Successfully Tests GÖKSUR Naval Air Defense System
Turkey’s defense industry achieved a milestone with the first live-fire test of its new GÖKSUR naval air defense system in Sinop on the northern Black Sea coast on earlier this month. On 7 October, a GÖKSUR IIR missile launched in this trial from the recently developed GÖKSUR 100-N vertical-launch system successfully intercepted and destroyed a sea-skimming target at a distance exceeding 11km.
The GÖKSUR system was co-developed by Turkish defense firm ASELSAN in cooperation with TÜBİTAK SAGE. It is designed as a short-range point-defense missile for ships, featuring an advanced imaging infrared seeker and ASELSAN’s GÜDÜ datalink for mid-course guidance. It completed its first successful test back in March 2025. The vertically launched missile and its 20-round launcher module provide 360-degree coverage and multi-target engagement with an AI-assisted fire control system. Each 20-round launcher can cover a large area, as the GÖKSUR IIR missile is reported to have a maximum range of about 15km, extending a ship’s defensive perimeter. The system is designed to counter a wide range of low-altitude threats. Aselsan notes that GÖKSUR can defend naval vessels against sea-skimming anti-ship and cruise missiles.
The GÖKSUR interceptor scored a direct hit on the target during the live-fire exercise. Aselsan noted the missile “achieved a direct hit and destruction” of the target, proving its seeker and guidance performance in realistic conditions. The company hailed the test as a “historic milestone” for Turkey’s naval defense. President and CEO Ahmet Akyol said the result “not only strengthens our naval defense and deterrence but also reaffirms ASELSAN’s commitment to developing indigenous, game-changing systems.”
Turkish defense officials underscored the trial’s strategic impact. Presidency of Defense Industries head Haluk Gorgun described the capability as “game-changing” for naval forces and noted that Turkey’s broader air defense architecture is being enhanced with new capabilities. The GÖKSUR project is envisioned as part of Turkey’s layered “Steel Dome” naval defense network, ensuring modern warships can defend against advanced missile threats at sea.