Close
newsletters Newsletters
X Instagram Youtube

Bayraktar Akinci drone achieves direct hit with KUZGUN-SS munition

Footages from the Bayraktar Akinci UCAVs test of KUZGUN-SS munition on 31 May, 2025. (Photo via screengrab via X/@Selcuk)
June 01, 2025 03:56 PM GMT+03:00

The Bayraktar Akinci Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV), developed by Baykar, achieved a direct hit on a maritime target during a test firing of the TUBITAK SAGE-produced KUZGUN-SS munition, demonstrating high-precision strike capabilities.

The successful test showcased the effectiveness of Türkiye's domestically developed drone and smart munition combination in real-world operational conditions over water.

The KUZGUN-SS munition used in the test represents one of three variants in the KUZGUN weapon system family, designed for different delivery platforms and engagement scenarios.

Footages from the Bayraktar Akinci UCAV's test of KUZGUN-SS munition on 31 May, 2025. (Photo via screengrab via X/@Selcuk)

KUZGUN-SS Free-Gliding munition specifications

The KUZGUN-SS (Free-Gliding) munition is an aerodynamically designed weapon that glides toward targets without requiring a propulsion system after launch.

Key technical specifications of KUZGUN-SS munition include:

  • Weight: Less than 85 kilograms
  • Range: 40+ kilometers from UAVs, 110+ kilometers from fighter aircraft
  • Warhead: 28 kilograms (particulate or thermobaric options)
  • Guidance: Semi-Active Laser (SAL) or Infrared Imaging (IIR) seeker heads
  • Accuracy: Circular Error Probable (CEP) less than 3 meters (9.8 feet).

The munition features GPS/INS navigation systems and bi-directional data link capabilities for enhanced targeting precision.

Bayraktar Akinci drone achieves direct hit with KUZGUN-SS munition
Bayraktar Akinci drone achieves direct hit with KUZGUN-SS munition

Three-variant weapon system family

The KUZGUN weapon system family consists of three main variants designed for different operational requirements:

  • KUZGUN-SS (Free-Gliding): The variant tested, designed for cost-effective precision strikes with aerodynamic gliding capability.
  • KUZGUN-KY (Solid Rocket Motor): Features an integrated solid propellant rocket motor for extended-range missions, capable of launch from land and naval platforms with over 40 kilometers of range. This variant can be integrated with naval helicopters.
  • KUZGUN-TJ (Turbojet Engine): The longest-range variant with cruise missile-like characteristics, capable of ranges up to 250 kilometers for engaging fixed and mobile targets at extended distances.
Bayraktar Akinci drone achieves direct hit with KUZGUN-SS munition
Bayraktar Akinci drone achieves direct hit with KUZGUN-SS munition

The test demonstrated the munition's "Man-in-the-Loop" control capability through TUBITAK SAGE's developed data link module, allowing operators to redirect the weapon toward moving targets during flight.

This capability enables real-time target adjustment and enhances engagement flexibility against dynamic threats in maritime and land environments.

June 01, 2025 04:47 PM GMT+03:00
More From Türkiye Today