Türkiye Unveils GATREX Anti-Drone Interceptor

Hybrid Hunter Drone Targets FPV Threats

Turkish defence company Digitest introduced a new counter-drone platform designed for close-range air defence missions.

The system, named GATREX, targets the growing threat posed by FPV and kamikaze drones on the modern battlefield.

Digitest developed the platform as part of its expanding counter-UAV portfolio. The company aims to strengthen layered air defence capabilities against low-cost aerial threats.

GATREX Combines Endurance and Firepower
Hybrid Propulsion Expands Operational Flexibility

Digitest Foreign Relations Specialist Berk Demirkoparan described GATREX as a hybrid interceptor built for frontline defensive operations.

The drone reaches speeds of 90 kilometres per hour and remains airborne for up to 75 minutes.

Engineers equipped the platform with both petrol and battery propulsion systems. This hybrid structure increases endurance while maintaining operational flexibility during interception missions.

Demirkoparan stated that the system emerged after a lengthy research and development process focused on proactive drone interception.

Gatling Weapon Gives System Unique Capability
3,000 Rounds Per Minute

One of GATREX’s defining features comes from its integrated Gatling weapon system.

According to Demirkoparan, the system delivers 3,000 rounds per minute and carries ammunition capacity for 3,000 rounds in a single ammunition box.

He also claimed that only the United States previously manufactured this type of Gatling-based system before Türkiye developed its own version.

The weapon gives GATREX a major advantage against swarm attacks and rapidly manoeuvring FPV drones.

AI Integration Could Reduce Crew Requirements
Single-Operator Concept Under Development

The current operational model uses two personnel. One operator controls the drone, while another manages the weapon system.

However, Digitest now works on an artificial intelligence-supported configuration designed for single-operator control.

This approach could simplify battlefield deployment and reduce reaction times during high-pressure engagements.

System Reaches Operational Readiness
Flight and Firing Tests Completed

Digitest confirmed that GATREX completed firing tests, flight evaluations and integrated weapon-flight trials.

Demirkoparan stated that the platform already passed the required qualification stages and reached mission-ready status.

The company plans to position GATREX at the front line of layered defence networks protecting high-value military assets.

Strategic Insight

Modern conflicts increasingly favour cheap FPV drones over expensive guided munitions. That trend creates pressure on traditional air defence systems.

GATREX addresses this challenge with a lower-cost interception model built for sustained frontline use.

Its hybrid propulsion, extended endurance and high-volume Gatling fire could offer Turkish forces a fast-response shield against saturation drone attacks.

Source: AA