Turkey initiates work on superspeed anti-ship missile
In a significant stride towards modernizing its naval defense capabilities, Turkey is currently developing its first supersonic anti-ship missile, with a partnership focusing on ramjet engine technology recently unveiled at the IDEF25 defense exhibition in July 2025.
This new missile, still in development, is set to surpass the speed of existing subsonic missiles like the Atmaca, which operates at speeds below Mach 1 (the speed of sound). The ramjet engine being developed will enable the new missile to sustain supersonic speeds throughout its flight, significantly increasing its velocity.
The benefits of supersonic missiles are numerous. They can overcome layered missile defenses and reduce interception probability due to their high speeds, which also enhance their survivability against air defenses. However, supersonic missiles generally have higher propulsion and thermal management requirements, potentially limiting their range or payload compared to subsonic missiles.
The new supersonic missile is predicted to be developed in a moderate size, making it suitable for deployment on ships or aircraft. Exact launch platform details for the new missile remain undisclosed, but given the pattern of Turkish missile development, it is likely that it will be compatible with naval platforms, and possibly aircraft or coastal battery launchers.
The development of this supersonic anti-ship missile marks a significant step forward for Turkey, as it aims to boost its deterrence and operational effectiveness in maritime control zones compared to currently fielded subsonic systems.
Meanwhile, Turkey has also been active on the diplomatic front. A trilateral summit was held in Istanbul among Turkey, Italy, and Libya, focusing on migration and Gaza. Additionally, the Kizilelma unmanned combat aircraft entered serial production, with delivery expected in 2026.
In other news, Heung-Min Son left Tottenham Hotspur after a 10-year tenure, and the Hsiung Feng III supersonic anti-ship missile, a good example of what might emerge in Turkey, was recently seen on an FC-K-1 fighter jet.
References:
[1] Turkish Defence News. (2025, July). Turkey announces development of supersonic anti-ship missile. Retrieved from https://www.turkishdefencenews.com/news/turkey-announces-development-of-supersonic-anti-ship-missile/
[2] Atmaca Missile. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.mkek.gov.tr/en/products/atmaca-missile
[3] IDEF25. (2025, July). IDEF25 defense exhibition showcases Turkey's military advancements. Retrieved from https://www.idef.org.tr/en/2025-idef-defence-exhibition-showcases-turkeys-military-advancements/
- The new supersonic anti-ship missile, currently being developed in Turkey, is predicted to surpass the speed of the existing subsonic Atmaca missile.
- The ramjet engine technology, recently unveiled at IDEF25 defense exhibition in Istanbul, Turkey, will enable the new missile to sustain supersonic speeds throughout its flight.
- Turkey's President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, is pursuing advanced technological developments, like the new supersonic missile, as part of Turkey's efforts to modernize its naval defense capabilities.
- The aerospace industry in Turkiye is making strides, with the Kizilelma unmanned combat aircraft entering serial production, following the pattern of Turkish missile development.
