ASELSAN vs ROKETSAN: What’s the Difference?
ASELSAN vs ROKETSAN can be summed up in one sentence: ASELSAN builds defense electronics (radar, electronic warfare, electro-optics, communications, air-defense fire control), while ROKETSAN builds rockets, missiles, munitions and propulsion systems. They are not rivals but complementary firms performing different roles within the same defense system. In an air-defense system, the radar and command-and-control that find the target belong to ASELSAN, while the missile that reaches it belongs to ROKETSAN.
What do they build? The core distinction
Both companies sit under the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation (TSKGV), but their specialties diverge clearly. ASELSAN is the “see and decide” side; ROKETSAN is the “strike” side.
| Criterion | ASELSAN | ROKETSAN |
|---|---|---|
| Core expertise | Defense electronics | Missiles, rockets, munitions |
| Example products | Radar, EW, electro-optics, radios, HISAR/SIPER fire control | Ballistic missiles, anti-tank, propulsion |
| Role in a system | Detection, command-and-control, sensors | Launch, guided body, warhead |
| Founded | 1975 | 1988 |
| Size | Larger (revenue, staff, market value) | Relatively smaller |
| Ownership | TSKGV; listed (ASELS) | TSKGV affiliate |
How do they combine in an air-defense system?
Consider an air-defense system like HISAR or SIPER. The radar scanning the sky, the sensors detecting the threat and the command-and-control software making the firing decision are developed by ASELSAN. The body, propulsion and warhead of the missile that destroys the threat are ROKETSAN’s work. For guidance, ASELSAN’s seeker heads often come into play. So a single system is frequently the joint product of both companies.
Partners, not rivals
ASELSAN holds roughly a 15 percent stake in ROKETSAN, underlining how intertwined their interests are. In Turkey’s defense-industry model, firms divide labor rather than compete: ASELSAN develops sensors and electronics, ROKETSAN the missiles, and TUBITAK SAGE the guidance and warheads. This complementary structure lets national projects be produced domestically end to end.
Size comparison
ASELSAN is larger than ROKETSAN in revenue, headcount and market value. ASELSAN posted TL 180.4 billion in 2025 revenue, employs about 14,000 people and has a market value above $30 billion. ASELSAN is publicly listed (ASELS), while ROKETSAN operates as a direct TSKGV affiliate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is bigger, ASELSAN or ROKETSAN?
ASELSAN is markedly larger than ROKETSAN in revenue, headcount and market value.
Are ASELSAN and ROKETSAN competitors?
No. They are complementary firms under TSKGV; ASELSAN makes electronics, ROKETSAN makes missiles. ASELSAN holds about a 15 percent stake in ROKETSAN.
Who makes the missiles, ASELSAN or ROKETSAN?
The missile body and propulsion belong to ROKETSAN; ASELSAN usually supplies electronics such as radar, fire control and seeker heads.
Do the two work together on the same project?
Yes. In air-defense systems like HISAR and SIPER, ASELSAN handles electronics and command while ROKETSAN handles the missile.
Sources
- ASELSAN corporate product and affiliate information
- ROKETSAN corporate materials
- Presidency of Defence Industries project statements
