Middle East Eye: Turkey supplied Ukraine with Korkut air defense systems

Turkey supplied Ukraine earlier this year with a limited number of Korkut anti-drone air defense systems, according to a report by Middle East Eye. The deployment allows Kyiv to test the Turkish defense technology in active combat conditions as Russian forces increase their reliance on unmanned aerial vehicles and missiles to strike Ukrainian territory.

Aselsan Korkut System Targets Drones and Cruise Missiles

Produced by the Turkish defense contractor Aselsan, the Korkut system consists of three weapon carrier vehicles alongside a dedicated command and control vehicle. The mobile air defense system uses specialized cannons to target multiple aerial threats, including incoming drones, cruise missiles, and low-altitude hazards. According to Middle East Eye, the platform can engage first-person-view drones and tethered unmanned aircraft using intelligent 25-millimeter ammunition. An anonymous Ukrainian official told the publication that the Korkut system has achieved largely positive results against Russian attacks, noting that minor operational issues were resolved through small adjustments so the equipment is now considered field-tested.

Growing Ukrainian Demand for Additional Units

Following initial deployment and testing on the battlefield, Kyiv has expressed interest in acquiring more units if the financial terms are favorable. If the price is right, we are willing to buy more, an unnamed Ukrainian official told Middle East Eye. The ongoing conflict has created a continuous operational need for cost-effective systems capable of intercepting unmanned aerial vehicles. The relationship between Aselsan and Ukraine predates the current war, with the defense firm previously showcasing Korkut systems to the Ukrainian military at a defense exhibition in 2021.

Expanding Turkish Defense Manufacturing Exports

Aselsan Chief Executive Officer Ahmet Akyol stated in a television interview that Korkut systems are currently operational in nine countries. The Turkish military already utilizes the platform domestically, and the manufacturer plans to announce new export contracts in the coming days. Middle East Eye reported previously in May that Saudi Arabia and Qatar signed contracts to purchase Korkut 100/25 air defense systems, while Iraq has expressed interest in acquiring the platform as global demand rises for short-range counter-drone capabilities.

Broader Military Cooperation Between Ankara and Kyiv

The integration of Korkut into Ukraine’s defense network forms part of a wider military supply arrangement between Turkey and Ukraine. Throughout the war, Turkey has provided Kyiv with Bayraktar TB2 armed drones, laser-guided missiles, artillery ammunition, and machine guns, Middle East Eye reported. Several other Turkish defense companies are working alongside the Ukrainian military to test and refine weapon systems under active combat conditions as military forces adapt to modern drone warfare.