The ATMACA cruise missile is an advanced anti-ship weapon co-developed by two leading Turkish defense companies, Roketsan and Aselsan. Designed to replace the aging American Harpoon anti-ship cruise missiles in the Turkish inventory, the ATMACA cruise missile represents a significant step toward Turkiye’s defense self-sufficiency.
Development and Purpose
The development of the ATMACA cruise missile began in 2009 under the ATMACA Guided Missile Project, initiated to meet the Turkish Naval Forces Command’s requirement for a modern, indigenous anti-ship missile. The first successful ship-launched test was conducted from the TCG Kinaliada on November 3, 2019.
The ATMACA cruise missile is a subsonic missile with both sea-skimming and land attack capabilities, making it highly versatile in naval warfare. Its primary role is to strike naval targets with high precision while operating in challenging environments.
Technical Specifications
This missile features advanced technical specifications, including:
• Length: 4.3–5.2 meters
• Weight: Less than 750 kg
• Range: Over 220 km
• Warhead Type: High Explosive with Effective Penetration and Fragmentation
• Warhead Weight: 220 kg
• Guidance System: Inertial Navigation System (INS) + Global Positioning System (GPS) + Barometric Altimeter + Radar Altimeter
Unique Capabilities and Deployment
The ATMACA cruise missile includes several key features that enhance its combat performance:
• Low Radar Cross Section: Makes it harder to detect and intercept.
• High Precision: Ensures accurate targeting even in complex scenarios.
• All-Weather Operation: Capable of functioning effectively in harsh weather conditions.
• Resistance to Countermeasures: Designed to withstand electronic warfare threats.
The current version of the ATMACA cruise missile can also be launched from land-based platforms against naval targets. Turkiye is developing a submarine-launched variant of the ATMACA, which will be integrated with U-214TN Reis-class AIP submarines. This submarine-launched version will enhance Turkiye’s strategic strike capabilities, providing stealth and long-range precision attack options.
Future Integration and Strategic Impact
Turkiye plans to equip its Ada-class corvettes, Istanbul-class frigates, and TF-2000-class destroyers with this cruise missile. The integration of new missiles into these platforms will require updates to the existing Combat Management System (CMS) to maximize operational efficiency.
The ATMACA cruise missile positions Turkiye among a select group of nations with indigenous anti-ship missile capabilities. Its advanced guidance system, long-range precision strike capability, and multi-platform deployment make it a critical asset for the Turkish Navy’s modernization strategy.
Conclusion
This cuise missile strengthens Turkiye’s naval defense capabilities, providing a reliable, high-precision solution for engaging maritime threats. Its combination of stealth, advanced guidance, and multi-platform versatility makes it a key component of Turkiye’s growing defense portfolio.
