Turkish laser weapons system with new capabilities set to make splash at Istanbul defense expo
Mobile hybrid platform equipped with laser system, adaptable combat vehicles, amphibious assault vehicle, and command and control platforms to be showcased at Istanbul expo led by Europe’s largest defense cluster
Turkish defense firms are preparing to showcase a fleet of advanced defense solutions, including armored vehicles and a next-generation laser-equipped hybrid tank at the upcoming SAHA 2026 defense expo in Istanbul.
The SAHA 2026 International Defense, Aviation, and Space Industry Expo will take place on May 5–9 in Istanbul, organized by Europe’s largest defense and aerospace cluster.
Leading Turkish military ground vehicle maker FNSS plans to showcase new platforms and upgraded capabilities that have recently been integrated into Türkiye’s national security forces’ inventories.
The FNSS Alka-Kaplan hybrid directed energy weapon system (DEWS) is a mobile laser weapon designed to detect and neutralize drone swarms, including loitering munitions and micro-unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The high-energy weapon, developed in collaboration with Roketsan, is powered by a specialized diesel generator unit integrated directly into the hybrid vehicle, which meets both the vehicle’s and the high-voltage Alka laser system’s requirements, eliminating the need to tow an external power supply unit with its highly cost-effective solution against asymmetric aerial threats.
FNSS will display its next-generation wheeled armored combat vehicle, the Pars Alpha eight-by-eight, at the event.
The vehicle features high survivability and situational awareness, equipped with in-house Teber-II 30/40 remote-controlled turret, which boasts a 30-millimeter dual-feed automatic cannon able to be swapped with a 40-millimeter barrel to scale firepower at will. AAdditionally, a 7.62-millimeter coaxial machine gun is mounted alongside the main weapon.
The expo will also display FNSS’ armored amphibious assault vehicle ZAHA, currently active in the Turkish Navy.
The craft is designed to rapidly traverse the distance between landing ships and the shore during amphibious assaults, allowing personnel to deploy quickly at high speeds under heavy ballistic protection and integrated fire support.
FNSS’ Izci six-by-six command and control vehicle will also take center stage at the event, as it’s built for rapid recon and internal security missions, utilizing a central command and control system for real-time tactical coordination, in line with mine and ballistic protection standards of dedicated personnel carriers.
*Writing by Emir Yildirim in Istanbul
