MKE TOLGA: A Breakthrough in Air Defence for Modern Warfare

In the evolving landscape of modern warfare, Shahed-type fixed-wing loitering munitions, drones, and cruise missiles represent significant threats to nations worldwide. The Makine ve Kimya Endüstrisi (MKE), Turkey’s premier defence industry leader, has addressed these challenges with the innovative MKE TOLGA Short-Range Air Defence System (SHORAD). This system employs a holistic “Effective-Simple-Affordable” strategy, integrating advanced command and control, radar, electro-optical systems, electronic jammers, multi-calibre weapon systems, and specially designed ammunition all within a unified platform.

How MKE TOLGA Neutralises Aerial Threats

MKE TOLGA effectively mitigates aerial threats using two primary methods: Soft-Kill and Hard-Kill. In soft-kill scenarios, detected drone threats are subdued through electronic jamming, effective up to 10 kilometres. Conversely, in hard-kill situations, threats are neutralised with MKE’s proprietary 12.7 mm, 20 mm, and 35 mm weapon systems, complemented by specially engineered anti-drone ammunition. This programmable anti-drone munitions system boasts optimised detonation timing and range, creating a fragmentation envelope around targets, ensuring reliable neutralisation of UAVs and drones. The 35 mm munition excels at engagements up to 3,000 metres, while the 20 mm system is effective within 1,000 metres, and the 12.7 mm fragmentation rounds operate effectively within 300 metres. Designed for operational versatility, the MKE TOLGA can be operated in manual, semi-autonomous, and fully autonomous configurations. Its modular nature allows for easy integration into fixed installations, such as military bases and energy facilities, as well as mobile platforms, including both armoured and unarmoured vehicles, and naval units.

Upcoming Capabilities for MKE TOLGA

With its sophisticated layered architecture, the MKE TOLGA offers a cost-effective answer to the complexities of contemporary warfare. Upcoming enhancements will include microwave-based systems at the foundational layer to combat swarm threats. Additionally, a Laser Weapon System will provide continuous, high-precision engagements on low-cost targets that demand rapid response. The incorporation of high-tech missile systems capable of operating at high altitudes and long ranges will be vital for addressing expansive aerial threats, such as Shahed-type UAVs. Furthermore, a budget-friendly missile system capable of engaging targets within a 3-8 kilometre radius will amplify the MKE TOLGA’s multi-layered air defence framework.

Successful Global Partnerships for MKE TOLGA

During live-fire exercises held in November 2025, MKE TOLGA showcased its capabilities to military delegations from 14 countries, successfully neutralising fixed-wing UAVs and drones in eight distinct scenarios with an impressive 100% success rate. To date, MKE has secured three export agreements with Qatar, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia for the MKE TOLGA Short-Range Air Defence System, offering an economical solution for combating low-cost drone threats. Ongoing negotiations with various nations globally further underscore its potential on the international stage.