GÖKBEY Cockpit and Avionics: Glass Cockpit, 4-Axis Autopilot and ASELSAN Systems

The most visible innovative aspect of the GÖKBEY (T625) general purpose helicopter is hidden in the panel in front of the pilots. Classic analog gauges have been replaced by an end-to-end digital glass cockpit and a locally sourced avionics package from ASELSAN. This architecture aims to reduce the workload during flight with a single pilot or two pilots and to make mission information readable at a glance.

Glass cockpit: multifunctional displays

GÖKBEY is equipped with large multifunctional digital displays (MFD) instead of mechanical dials. Flight data, engine and system status, navigation maps, and mission information are presented in layers on these displays. The pilot can rearrange the display layout according to the mission phase; critical alerts are prioritized. This arrangement embodies the essence of the “glass cockpit” philosophy: a small number of large screens are read faster than numerous small dials.

4-axis digital autopilot

The standout feature in the platform’s flight control is the 4-axis digital automatic flight control system (AFCS/autopilot). The four axes include pitch, roll, yaw, and collective (vertical) axis. This allows the helicopter to be maintained at a specific altitude and speed, with modes like automatic hover and automatic approach easing the pilot’s workload. The digital autopilot particularly enhances safety margins during low visibility, nighttime, and over-water missions.

ASELSAN avionics package

The avionics backbone of GÖKBEY is largely provided by ASELSAN. This package encompasses a domestic whole that includes integrated navigation, communication, identification, and mission systems. Domestic avionics are strategically important in terms of both supply security and reducing dependence on third-party approvals for exports.

Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA)

The trend in modern helicopter avionics is the integrated modular avionics (IMA) architecture instead of a separate box for each function. In this approach, common processor resources are shared through software-defined modules. The result: less wiring, less weight, easier upgrades. The contribution of institutions like HAVELSAN to GÖKBEY’s domestic software infrastructure is crucial for the sustainability of this integrated architecture.

Pilot workload and mission flexibility

The common goal of the glass cockpit, digital autopilot, and integrated warning management is to reduce pilot workload. In transport, search and rescue, air ambulance, or maritime missions, the pilot can focus more on managing the mission rather than flying the vehicle. The ability to adapt the screen layout according to the mission also facilitates the use of the same platform in different variants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does GÖKBEY have a glass cockpit? Yes. Multi-functional digital displays (MFD) are used instead of analog gauges.

How many axes does GÖKBEY’s autopilot have? It uses a 4-axis digital automatic flight control system (AFCS).

Who provides the avionics systems? The avionics backbone is largely provided domestically by ASELSAN.

What does 4 axes mean? Automatic control of yaw, roll, pitch, and collective (vertical) axes.

What is the purpose of the autopilot? It reduces pilot workload with modes such as altitude and speed hold, automatic hover, and approach.