ASELSAN’s ASELPOD is a state-of-the-art electro-optical targeting pod designed to enhance the precision strike capabilities of modern combat aircraft. Featuring advanced dual-wavelength laser rangefinder and designation systems, ASELPOD offers both combat and eye-safe training modes, allowing for versatile operational use without compromising pilot safety.
Key Features and Capabilities:
- Dual-Wavelength Laser Rangefinder: Enables accurate target ranging with a combat mode using 1064 nm wavelength and a training mode at 1570 nm, which is eye-safe for pilot and personnel training scenarios.
- Multi-Sensor Imaging: The pod integrates high-performance infrared (IR) and television (TV) cameras with overlapping fields of view, ensuring clear, real-time imaging for target acquisition and tracking across various weather and lighting conditions.
- Laser Spot Tracker and Pointer: Facilitates the detection and designation of laser-illuminated targets, enabling precise guidance for laser-guided munitions.
- High-Resolution Cameras: The IR camera provides exceptional sensitivity and resolution, while the TV camera delivers clear daytime imaging, supporting continuous target monitoring.
- 360° Roll and Wide Pitch Movement: The pod’s stabilized turret allows continuous rotation and extensive vertical movement, giving pilots unmatched flexibility to track and designate targets in dynamic combat environments.
- Advanced Stabilization and Image Processing: Incorporates inertial measurement units and sensor-in-sensor technology, ensuring stable imagery and reliable target tracking even during high-G maneuvers.
- Modular Design with MIL-STD-1553 Interface: Ensures compatibility with various aircraft avionics and facilitates easy integration and upgrades.
ASELPOD has proven its operational reliability in multiple air forces, including Turkey’s own fleet of F-16 and F-4 aircraft, as well as the JF-17 Thunder fighter jets of Pakistan and Nigeria. Its versatility and rugged design allow it to perform effectively in diverse climates and mission profiles.
Furthermore, ASELSAN is advancing the technology with the development of ASELPOD-2, which promises improved imaging sensors, longer laser designation ranges, and integration of artificial intelligence for enhanced target recognition and situational awareness.
With its combination of precision, reliability, and adaptability, ASELPOD firmly positions Turkey as a leader in the global defense technology market and offers partner nations a competitive edge in modern aerial combat.
