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Sarsilmaz Showcases its 20 mm Automated Turret ATAK During SAHA 2024 in Türkiye.
The Turkish company Sarsilmaz presented its new automated turret equipped with a 20 mm cannon, named "ATAK Burun Topu", during the SAHA Expo 2024. This system is designed to offer precise and effective firepower while being integrated into aerial platforms. The turret is presented as a crucial component to improve close-quarters attack capabilities and rapid engagement.
The 20 mm ATAK Burun Topu automated turret was designed to equip Turkish T129 ATAK attack helicopters. (Picture source: Army Recognition)
The turret’s cannon is of 20x102 mm NATO caliber, with a firing rate of 750 rounds per minute, enabling rapid saturation of targets in a short period. This system is equipped with a rotary barrel mechanism, optimized for servo-controlled operation and electric ignition, ensuring greater stability and precise firing. The muzzle velocity of the cannon is impressive, reaching 1,049 meters per second, giving the projectile enhanced range and accuracy.
The development of this turret aims to provide a robust solution for attack helicopters and other aerial platforms where a lightweight yet formidable offensive capability is essential. The turret's design allows for adaptation on various aerial vehicles, particularly for operations requiring rapid maneuvers and extreme precision, such as those conducted by the Turkish armed forces.
The SAHA 2024 event, held in Turkey, has become a privileged showcase for Turkish military innovations, and the ATAK Burun Topu turret perfectly embodies this spirit of innovation. This product reflects Turkey's ongoing efforts to strengthen its national defense capabilities while offering exportable solutions to its allies.
The 20 mm ATAK Burun Topu automated turret was designed to equip Turkish T129 ATAK attack helicopters. This system is the result of a collaboration between Sarsılmaz and Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), through their joint venture, TR Mekatronik. This 20 mm cannon is mounted on the nose of the helicopter, offering short- and medium-range offensive capabilities with improved precision thanks to its firing rate of 750 rounds per minute and high muzzle velocity (1,049 m/s).
The main role of this turret is to provide close air support against ground targets, enhancing the attack helicopters' capabilities in missions supporting ground forces. Its precision and rapid-fire capacity make it an effective weapon for neutralizing moving or fortified targets. In addition to integration on ATAK helicopters, this cannon could potentially be adapted to other aerial or ground vehicles, although its development has initially focused on aerial platforms like helicopters.
The 20 mm ATAK Burun Topu is a key weapon for modernizing Turkish attack helicopters, allowing Turkey to reduce its dependency on foreign suppliers while increasing its capacity to export weapon systems.