Z. Burak Mercan, General Manager of Altınay Defense Technologies, shared insights into the company’s position in the defense industry, technology-focused investments and strategic collaborations during his appearance on Habertürk’s "Airport" program.
Operating under the umbrella of Altınay Technology Group, which boasts over 30 years of history, Altınay Defense today stands as a prominent engineering and production company developing critical subsystems for land, naval and air platforms.
A Robust Journey in Defense Technologies
Altınay’s journey in the defense sector gained momentum with its first project for Roketsan in 2006. Since then, the company has played an active role in a wide range of defense areas—from munition dismantling to advanced aerial platforms, delivering innovative and mission-critical system solutions.
With nearly 700 employees, including over 550 engineers, Altınay Defense offers a wide portfolio of products and services, including multi-rotor UAVs, flight control systems and landing gears for fighter aircraft.
Rising National Power with DASAL UAV Systems
Mercan highlighted the contributions of DASAL Aviation Technologies, a subsidiary of Altınay, which develops indigenous and innovative multi-rotor UAV solutions. He stated that next-generation UAV systems developed by DASAL—capable of cargo transport and functioning reliably even in signal-jamming environments—are now actively used by the Turkish Armed Forces.
These UAV systems are continually evolving with enhanced range, increased payload capacity and intelligent mission capabilities. Mercan also emphasized active engagement with export markets across Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
Strategic Collaboration with ASELSAN
Another key topic discussed was the long-standing technological collaboration with ASELSAN. Mercan pointed to examples such as the integration of ASELSAN’s camera and communication systems into UAV platforms developed by Altınay, underscoring the strong synergy among Türkiye’s defense companies.
Subsystem Contributions to the National Combat Aircraft KAAN
Through its joint venture TAAC, established with TUSAŞ, Altınay Defense is developing several critical subsystems for the National Combat Aircraft (KAAN). Mercan noted that Altınay Defense also undertakes the precision manufacturing of key components for these systems, reinforcing the program’s industrial capabilities.
He stated that all of these subsystems are designed to function safely under harsh environmental conditions in line with aerospace standards and that Altınay’s production infrastructure also contributes to other key platforms such as HÜRJET and GÖKBEY.
SALAN: Precision Munition Release Systems
Altınay Defense has also developed significant expertise in SALAN systems, designed for the safe and precise release of munitions from aircraft. Mercan explained that these systems allow munitions to be ejected with specific speed, direction and force, ensuring safe separation during flight—especially vital in supersonic operations where aerodynamic challenges are most critical.