The SOM-J cruise missile, developed in cooperation between TÜBİTAK-SAGE and Roketsan, successfully completed a test launch and precisely hit a naval target platform, marking a significant milestone in Turkey’s defense industry weapons program.
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Developed to be compatible with internal weapon bays of both manned and unmanned combat aircraft, the SOM-J (Air Launched Cruise Missile – ALCM) had remained silent for a while due to capability upgrades being implemented. Now, with its new ability to strike naval platforms, the missile demonstrated its effectiveness in a test conducted by the Turkish Air Force.
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During the exercise, the SOM-J was assigned to the 401st Fighter Squadron and launched from an F-16 Fighting Falcon belonging to the Test Command. The version used did not carry a warhead but still managed to strike the exact center of the naval target platform. The moment was highlighted when the Turkish pilot used the term “Splash became the center,” referring in military aviation terminology to a direct hit on the target.
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Strategic munition for next-generation aircraft
The SOM-J was designed to operate from the internal weapon bays of next-generation combat aircraft such as the Turkish KAAN fighter jet, the KIZILELMA combat drone, and the ANKA-3. Using internal weapons significantly reduces an aircraft’s radar cross-section, making it harder to detect by enemy systems. However, adapting air-to-ground and air-to-air munitions to fit inside internal bays is a technical challenge due to limited space.
The Turkish defense industry has been developing compatible solutions. Recently, the lightweight ASELSAN TOLUN missile was successfully launched from ANKA-3’s internal bay. SOM-J, the ÇAKIR missile, and other munitions are expected to follow this path in the near future.
SOM-J Highlights:
- Capability to engage land and surface targets
- Post-launch data-link control (retargeting, target updates, mission cancelation)
- Integration with internal weapon bays of stealth aircraft
- Infrared Imaging Seeker (IIR) for terminal guidance
- Effective warhead option against naval targets
- Low radar signature
With the successful test, the SOM-J positions itself as a strategic asset in Turkey’s combat aviation doctrine, especially within the context of next-generation stealth platforms.
Source and images: Mehmet Fatih KACIR – Minister of Industry and Technology, Republic of Turkey, X @mfatihkacir. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
