ÇAKIR Cruise Missile: First Export from Turkey’s Defense
**Turkey has marked a significant milestone in its defense industry with the first-ever export of the ÇAKIR cruise missile and the SUNGUR air defense missile system, both developed by ROKETSAN. This achievement underscores Turkey’s growing capabilities on the international defense stage, showcasing advancements made using national resources. At a press conference at the Presidency of Defense Industries, Haluk Görgün, President of Defense Industries, announced the successful export, stating, “Our ÇAKIR and SUNGUR missiles have been exported for the first time.”**
The significance of this export extends beyond economic implications; it represents a strategic move for Turkey as it seeks to establish itself as a formidable player in the global defense market. This development aligns with Turkey’s objective of reducing dependency on foreign defense systems while fostering stronger defense cooperation with allied nations. The successful export of these missiles highlights Turkey’s commitment to enhancing its defense posture and international partnerships.
SUNGUR Air Defense Missile System
Among short-range air defense systems, the SUNGUR missile system stands out due to its advanced technological features. With an effective range that spans from 500 meters to 8.5 kilometers and capable of engaging targets at altitudes up to 4 kilometers, the SUNGUR is designed for modern combat scenarios. Its warhead is equipped with partially penetrative explosive capabilities, enabling it to deliver devastating impacts upon detonation.
Moreover, the SUNGUR boasts a rapid response time of less than five seconds, thanks to its dual-stage rocket motor. The incorporation of an Infrared Imaging Seeker (IIR) enhances its target detection and tracking precision, solidifying its position as a leading choice among portable air defense systems. These features collectively ensure that the SUNGUR can effectively meet the demands of contemporary military engagements.
ÇAKIR Cruise Missile Specifications
The ÇAKIR cruise missile, which underwent firing tests from the AKINCI UCAV, showcases advanced capabilities with a range exceeding 150 kilometers. It is armed with a 70 kg warhead designed for high explosive effects and semi-penetrative impact, alongside thermobaric destruction capabilities. The missile achieves a supersonic cruising speed of 0.75-0.85 Mach, powered by a turbojet engine, and can be launched from a variety of platforms using a solid propellant.
Additionally, the ÇAKIR missile is equipped with sophisticated guidance systems, including inertial navigation, a jamming-resistant GPS, radar, and a barometric altimeter for high precision targeting. In its terminal phase, it offers options for infrared imaging, radio frequency, or hybrid seekers, allowing for dynamic targeting via a bi-directional data link. This versatility makes the ÇAKIR missile a flexible asset adaptable to diverse warfare environments.
Successful Target Engagement by Bayraktar AKINCI
In a recent demonstration of its capabilities, the Bayraktar AKINCI successfully hit a target using the ÇAKIR missile. This successful engagement is a testament to the missile’s precision and effectiveness in combat scenarios, further validating Turkey’s investment in developing advanced defense technologies.
The successful operational use of the ÇAKIR missile not only reinforces the credibility of Turkey’s defense exports but also enhances the strategic capabilities of its armed forces. As Turkey continues to innovate and expand its defense industry, such achievements are likely to bolster its position in the global defense market.
