Türkiye completes testing of 1st domestically developed air surveillance radar

Türkiye‘s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloglu announced the successful completion of testing for the National Surveillance Radar (MGR) – Mode-S SSR, Türkiye’s first domestically developed civil air surveillance radar.

The system, created entirely by Turkish engineers, is set to become operational by the first quarter of 2025 following integration with air traffic control systems.

Why it matters

The deployment of MGR represents a major milestone in Türkiye’s efforts to reduce reliance on foreign technologies and strengthen its domestic aviation infrastructure. The system aims to enhance the efficiency, safety, and independence of the country’s air traffic control operations, further supporting Türkiye’s vision of becoming a leader in aviation technology.

Details

• Development and testing:
  • MGR was collaboratively developed by the State Airports Authority (DHMI) and Tubitak Bilgem, involving extensive input from Turkish engineers.
  • The radar has been installed at Gaffur Baba Hill near Gaziantep Airport and successfully passed rigorous operational tests.
  • Full integration with air traffic management systems is expected shortly.
• Technical capabilities:
  • The primary surveillance system can detect aircraft up to 112 kilometers away in various weather conditions.
  • The secondary surveillance system can track up to 1,000 aircraft simultaneously within a 370-kilometer range, operating around the clock.
  • The radar was designed to adhere to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and European Organization for Air Navigation Safety (Eurocontrol) international standards.
• Strategic impact:
  • MGR is set to significantly improve air traffic management by enhancing the efficiency of systems used by air traffic controllers.
  • Beyond its domestic utility, the radar is positioned for export, potentially making Türkiye a key player in global aviation technology markets.

This radar represents a turning point in Türkiye’s national and domestic production efforts. By increasing efficiency and reducing foreign dependency, MGR demonstrates Türkiye’s determination to lead in aviation technology

Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloglu

Zoom out

Türkiye plans to roll out the MGR system across the country, ensuring full monitoring of its 1 million square kilometer airspace using indigenous technology. This initiative aligns with Türkiye’s broader strategy to strengthen its aviation capabilities and meet international standards. Additionally, the potential export of MGR highlights the country’s growing role in the global aviation industry.