Türkiye’s SOM cruise missile hit its target with pinpoint accuracy during a recent test. The missile is powered by the KTJ-3200 turbojet engine, which was developed domestically. This successful trial is a big step forward for Türkiye’s plan to make important defense technologies within the country instead of relying on foreign suppliers.
TÜBİTAK SAGE developed the SOM (Stand-Off Missile). It is a long-range, air-to-ground cruise missile with advanced guidance systems and mission flexibility. In its latest configuration, the missile was tested with the KTJ-3200 turbojet engine developed by Kale ARGE, demonstrating Türkiye’s capability to replace foreign propulsion systems with national solutions.
The integration of the KTJ-3200 ensures Türkiye’s strategic independence and enhances its capacity to export high-tech weapon systems.
The SOM Project was initiated in April 2006 by TÜBİTAK SAGE to meet the operational needs of the Turkish Air Force, especially following the security assessments after the Kardak Crisis.
Early versions of the SOM used French Microturbo TRI-40 engines. However, in 2010, a domestic engine development program was launched due to growing concerns about potential embargoes.
Kale ARGE began developing the KTJ-3200 in 2012 under a contract worth less than $25 million. By 2018, the engine had entered serial production.
In 2020, qualification tests were completed, and since then, the engine has been integrated into various systems, including the ATMACA anti-ship missile.
The latest test was a major success with international implications.
On June 6, 2025, an F-16 fighter jet launched a SOM-B1 variant equipped with the KTJ-3200. The missile performed a precise terminal dive, striking the target accurately. This test demonstrates the effectiveness of the domestic engine in real combat scenarios.
Azerbaijan’s Air Force has reportedly acquired and conducted test launches of SOM missiles powered by the KTJ-3200, highlighting the system’s growing international appeal.
The SOM missile stands out with its modular design, allowing for configuration across a variety of mission profiles. All variants support network-centric warfare and are compatible with universal interface standards.
Variant Overview:
- SOM-A: Uses GPS and INS guidance; equipped with a high-explosive fragmentation warhead.
- SOM-B1: Infrared imaging seeker; precision guidance during terminal phase.
- SOM-B2: Equipped with a tandem-charge warhead capable of penetrating armored targets.
- SOM-C1/C2: Designed for hardened and mobile target engagement.
- SOM-J: F-35 compatible, low radar cross-section, and semi-armor-piercing capabilities.
The missiles are produced by ROKETSAN, and during the 2021 IDEF Defense Expo, a contract was signed between ROKETSAN and Kale ARGE for the integration of the KTJ-3200 engine.
The KTJ-3200 is also planned to power the MANSUP-ER anti-ship missile—a joint project between Brazil and the UAE—by 2025.
SOM Missile Technical Specifications:
- Warhead weight: 230 kg
- Total weight: ~600 kg
- Length: ~4 meters
- Range: 250+ km (unofficially up to 800 km in some variants)
The KTJ-3200 engine marks a significant milestone in Türkiye’s quest for self-sufficiency in defense technologies. This achievement will not only enhance the Turkish Armed Forces’ precision strike capabilities but also pave the way for deeper international cooperation and defense exports.
