Akkor 10 APS: Turkey’s Newly Integrated Defense System – Features & Specs
In a significant advancement for armored vehicle defense, Türkiye has officially integrated the AKKOR 10 active protection system (APS) into its military inventory. Developed by Aselsan, this cutting-edge system enhances the survivability of main battle tanks (MBTs) by neutralizing incoming threats such as anti-tank guided missiles and rocket-propelled grenades.
What is AKKOR 10?
The AKKOR 10 APS is a hard-kill system designed to intercept and destroy incoming projectiles before they reach the vehicle. It utilizes high-resolution perimeter radars to detect threats in real time and launches defensive munitions that detonate near the projectile, effectively neutralizing it.
This system provides 360-degree protection, ensuring that tanks remain secure against top-attack munitions, rocket-propelled grenades, and other advanced anti-tank weapons. Additionally, AKKOR 10 features a soft-kill component, including laser warning sensors and multispectral munitions, which disrupt enemy targeting systems using intelligent smoke screens.
Integration into Turkish Tanks
The Turkish Armed Forces have begun deploying AKKOR 10 on their ALTAY main battle tanks and modernized Leopard 2A4 tanks. This move is part of a broader effort to enhance battlefield resilience as anti-tank weaponry becomes more sophisticated.
Beyond MBTs, Türkiye is also exploring the integration of AKKOR 10 into other armored platforms. A contract signed in 2024 paved the way for its first deployment on a non-MBT vehicle, expanding its applicability across different military assets.
How AKKOR 10 Compares to Other APS
The AKKOR 10 system positions itself among the world's leading active protection systems. Comparable to the Israeli Trophy APS, which has been deployed on Merkava tanks and U.S. Abrams variants, AKKOR 10 offers effective protection while minimizing collateral damage.
Unlike conventional armor, which relies on passive defense, AKKOR 10 actively intercepts threats, making it a game-changer in modern armored warfare. Its modular design allows integration across various platforms, ensuring adaptability for future military needs.
Key Features of Akkor 10
360-degree coverage: The system can detect and neutralize threats from all directions.
Rapid-response mechanism: Akkor 10 launches defensive munitions that detonate near incoming projectiles, destroying them before impact.
Multi-threat countermeasures: It is capable of intercepting rockets, shaped-charge rounds, and guided missiles, including top-attack munitions.
Soft-kill capabilities: The system includes laser warning sensors and multispectral munitions to disrupt enemy targeting systems.
Autonomous operation: Akkor 10 functions effectively in harsh environmental conditions such as rain, dust, snow, and mud, without relying on exposed optical sensors.
Future Prospects
Aselsan continues to refine Akkor 10, with ongoing efforts to integrate the system into new armored vehicle prototypes. The development of the Akkor KAMA variant, designed for light armored vehicles, is currently in testing. This expansion will further enhance Turkey’s ability to protect its forces in diverse combat environments.
The adoption of Akkor 10 by the Turkish Armed Forces represents a significant leap in military technology. With its advanced threat-neutralization capabilities, autonomous operation, and multi-platform adaptability, Akkor 10 is set to reshape the future of armored warfare for Turkey. As the system undergoes further enhancements, it will continue to play a pivotal role in safeguarding Turkish military assets against evolving threats.