The Relationship Between ASELSAN and TUSAŞ
The relationship between ASELSAN and TUSAŞ is one of the best examples of the classic complementarity between a platform maker and a systems supplier. TUSAŞ (TAI) builds air platforms such as aircraft, helicopters and UAVs, while ASELSAN supplies their radar, avionics, electronic-warfare and electro-optical systems. Below we look at this division of labour.
Platform and system division of labour
TUSAŞ is the prime contractor for air platforms such as KAAN (national combat aircraft), HÜRJET, ANKA and GÖKBEY. ASELSAN supplies the radar (e.g. MURAD), electronic warfare, electro-optical reconnaissance systems and avionics components that go into these platforms. In other words, TUSAŞ builds the ‘bird’ and ASELSAN provides its ‘eyes and ears’.
Why they work together
A modern combat aircraft or UAV is defined as much by its sensors and electronic systems as by its airframe and engine. TUSAŞ platforms therefore cannot be completed without ASELSAN’s electronic capabilities. The two work together to make national air platforms indigenous end to end. TSKGV is among TUSAŞ’s main shareholders too, and this common umbrella eases the cooperation.
| Topic | TUSAŞ | ASELSAN |
|---|---|---|
| Role | Air-platform maker | System/electronics supplier |
| Example | KAAN, HÜRJET, ANKA, GÖKBEY | Radar, EW, EO, avionics |
| Analogy | The aircraft’s airframe | The aircraft’s eyes/ears |
| Relationship | Prime contractor | Subsystem supplier/partner |
Frequently asked questions
Are ASELSAN and TUSAŞ the same company?
No. TUSAŞ is an air-platform maker and ASELSAN a system/electronics supplier; they are different but complementary companies.
What does ASELSAN do on TUSAŞ aircraft?
ASELSAN supplies the radar, electronic warfare, electro-optical and avionics systems of TUSAŞ platforms.
What is ASELSAN’s role in KAAN?
ASELSAN is a major supplier on platforms such as the national combat aircraft KAAN, with radar and various avionics/electronic systems.
Do TUSAŞ and ASELSAN share an owner?
TSKGV is present in both companies’ ownership; this common umbrella eases the cooperation.
Sources
- ASELSAN, TUSAŞ, SSB, ROKETSAN, HAVELSAN corporate information; public defence-industry sources (2026).
- Images: Wikimedia Commons (attributions under each image).
Related: What is ASELSAN?
