The Electronic Support Pod (EDPOD), developed by TÜBİTAK BİLGEM with domestic and national resources, is designed for integration on F-16 fighter aircraft. Having passed all tests against real radar systems, EDPOD represents a significant advancement in Turkey’s electronic warfare (EW) capabilities.
Advanced Radar Detection and Threat Identification Integrated into the F-16 platform, EDPOD is used to detect, identify and geolocate enemy radar systems. It can process signals from a variety of radar types, including: Target acquisition radars Tracking radars Missile guidance radars Target illumination radars In addition, the system detects environmental threats and records high-capacity raw signal data for later analysis.
Operational Coordination via Link-16 EDPOD plays a critical role in real-time EW operations. By sharing collected threat information over the Link-16 data link, it ensures coordination with ground support systems and other aircraft. This capability provides front-line units with simultaneous and accurate situational awareness.
Powered by TÜBİTAK’s GZİS Operating System EDPOD runs on the GZİS real-time operating system, also developed by TÜBİTAK. Its advanced software suite supports post-mission analysis and continuously updates the electronic warfare database to maintain resilience against evolving threats.
Precise threat localization Thanks to its broadband and narrowband receivers, the EDPOD can detect a wide range of radar threats. It calculates precise locations using direction-of-arrival and geographic positioning data, providing enhanced threat assessment and situational awareness.
Powered by TÜBİTAK’s GZİS Operating System EDPOD runs on the GZİS real-time operating system, also developed by TÜBİTAK. Its advanced software suite supports post-mission analysis and continuously updates the electronic warfare database to maintain resilience against evolving threats.
Precise threat localization EDPOD can detect a wide range of radar threats thanks to its wideband and narrowband receivers. It calculates precise locations using direction-of-arrival and geographic positioning data, providing enhanced threat assessment and situational awareness.
Development Timeline and Milestones The project started in 2014 under the initiative of TÜBİTAK BİLGEM. EDPOD was presented for the first time at IDEF’19. In 2020, it successfully completed vibration tests, marking the start of the integration phase. Major achievements include the production of 2 RF boxes and 16 pre-receiver unit prototypes. The critical design phase of the system has been completed and F-16 integration is underway.
EDPOD is a landmark project that strengthens Turkey’s strategic autonomy in electronic warfare. By reducing foreign dependence and enhancing battlefield awareness, it supports national defense strategies with increased operational flexibility, effectiveness and technological superiority.
