Turkey’s Aselsan unveiled its latest electronic warfare (EW) pods at the Saha Expo, held in Istanbul from 22-26 October 2024.

The Antidot 2-U system provides unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with protection against hostile air defence systems and can be seamlessly integrated into all UAVs capable of carrying munitions such as Aselsan’s MAM-L lightweight Smart Micro Munition, allowing users to decide whether to mount munitions or the pod on any pylon. The fully autonomous system uses loaded electronic attack techniques to suppress and deceive air defence radars. With high output power as well as wide frequency and angle coverage, the Antidot 2-U pod protects UAVs and friendly assets from radio frequency (RF) threats. Weighing just 4 5kg and operating at 1,100 W, it can be installed on tactical-class UAVs without converting them into special mission aircraft, enhancing their capabilities.

The Antidot 2-U LB/MB/HB, meanwhile, is a compact EW system with both support and attack capabilities. It is designed to detect and neutralise air defence systems while protecting its platform and nearby assets with escort jamming, allowing UAVs to approach targets within munition range undetected. Lightweight and versatile, the pod integrates easily with UAVs equipped for MAM-L munitions, offering flexible mounting options. Multiple pods can be fitted based on mission needs. The system weighs 11 kg, operates at 380 W and comes in various versions (LB/MB/HB) for different threats.

Also unveiled was the Antidot 2-U/S electronic support system, which detects, identifies and records signals from threat air defence radars, accurately determining their direction and location. Data is instantly sent to the UAV’s ground control station via the its communication link. Designed for easy integration onto tactical-class UAVs, the system enhances situational awareness in the electromagnetic spectrum without risking lives, offering cost-effective operations, according to Aselsan. Weighing 30 kg and operating at 400 W, the system functions fully autonomously.

An Aselsan graphic showing the UAV EW pods the company unveiled at the Saha Expo, held in Istanbul from 22-26 October 2024. (Image: Aselsan)