ASELSAN has been equipping naval and land platforms with remote-controlled weapon stations for years, adding serious firepower and deterrence. Since 2006, the SMASH Stabilized Naval Weapon System family has grown into four variants, with over 560 units delivered to 18 countries, giving ASELSAN roughly 10% of the global market in this segment.
SMASH 300: AI-powered next generation
Based on combat experience, user feedback and new technologies, ASELSAN has developed the latest member of the family: SMASH 300. The system is designed to counter both classic surface threats and one of today’s most critical risks: mini and micro UAVs.
During firing trials in Konya Karapınar, the SMASH 300 prototype demonstrated effective engagement of:
- ground targets,
- single and multiple mini drone targets.
ATOM smart ammunition and AI integration
In this project, ASELSAN brings its proven airburst / particle ammunition know‑how to naval platforms. Thanks to a dedicated barrel support unit, the system can integrate ATOM smart ammunition, significantly increasing the probability of kill against small UAVs.
The AI support layer enables:
- multi-target detection and tracking,
- automatic object classification,
- adaptation to varying target sizes.
A redesigned electro‑optical suite boosts detection and surveillance performance, with upgraded thermal camera, TV camera and laser rangefinder. The ammunition capacity has also been increased compared with earlier SMASH variants, extending sustained engagement capability.
The project aims to strengthen the defensive power of naval platforms — primarily the Turkish Naval Forces and Coast Guard Command — using indigenous technologies. Systems like SMASH 300 are becoming a key building block of future robotic naval defense concepts in an era dominated by drones and autonomous threats.
Source: AA Bilim-Teknoloji
