Türkiye's next-gen cruise missile completes ground-launched tests
A Çakır cruise missile is fired from a mobile launcher in an undisclosed location. (Courtesy of Roketsan)


Türkiye said Thursday it had completed firing tests of the Çakır next-generation cruise missile, which struck both land and sea targets from ground-based platforms.

The missile, equipped with a next-generation IIR seeker, hit both a land target and a maritime target during two separate firing tests, its developer, state-run rocket and missile tech pioneer Roketsan, said.

The tests also successfully demonstrated an extended range enabled by a new fuel system, according to the company.

Initially optimized for launch from unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), Çakır has now demonstrated its ability to be fired from ground vehicles.

The tests showed that the missile can engage both land and sea targets and can be integrated into different platforms.

Çakır is designed with a low radar signature and high precision. Its navigation capabilities allow it to be used against different types of targets under varying weather conditions.

The missile is also designed to withstand countermeasures and conduct re-attacks. It features a datalink that enables operators to update targets during a mission and cancel missions when required.

Equipped with an indigenously developed Kale KTJ-1750 turbojet engine, Çakır can reach a range of 150+ kilometers, while weighing about 275 kilograms (without a booster) and 330 kilograms (with a booster).

In May 2023, a Bayraktar Akıncı UCAV successfully fired a Çakır in what marked the world's first drone-launched cruise missile test.