Turkey recently unveiled its first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) under development, named “Yildirimhan.” This powerful weapon can strike targets at a distance of 6,000 kilometers.
Consequently, the missile can reach targets across Asia, Europe, and Africa. Officials presented the missile on May 6, 2026, during the SAHA international weapons exhibition in Istanbul. This major event brings together military companies from Asia and Europe to showcase modern technologies.
Al Jazeera reported that the missile travels at 25 times the speed of sound. It features four engines and carries a payload of 3,000 kilograms in its front section. Although still under construction, the Yildirimhan signals a significant advancement in Turkey’s military industry.
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Strategic military capabilities and international cooperation
Turkey’s Minister of Defense, Yasar Guler, stated that his country aims to build sustainable military and technological capabilities. He emphasized that Turkey intends to support its partners through technology sharing and security solutions.
“At a time when the economy has become another weapon used by some countries against others, Turkey is ready to help its partners not only by providing weapons but also by offering technology and sustainable ways of ensuring their own security.” Yesar Guler said.
Military analyst Burak Yildirim noted that the missile technology shares many similarities with space programs. He explained that the knowledge required for long-range missiles often aids in launching spacecraft.
“The knowledge required to send a spacecraft into space and that of building long-range missiles are very similar. This could also help Turkey in its projects of launching spacecraft into space.” He said.
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Regional security concerns and domestic defense growth
The unveiling comes at a time when security in the Middle East remains highly unstable. Ongoing conflicts and regional wars continue to challenge local peace. Consequently, some politicians in Israel have expressed concern over Turkey’s rising military strength. Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett recently remarked that Turkey’s capabilities add to existing regional challenges.
Since the 2010s, Turkey has invested heavily in its domestic defense sector to avoid reliance on foreign weapons. Currently, Turkey maintains one of the strongest armies in NATO. Many countries already purchase Turkish equipment, including the famous Bayraktar TB2 drones.
With the development of the Yildirimhan, Turkey joins a very small group of nations capable of producing intercontinental ballistic missiles. This group includes the United States, Russia, China, India, North Korea, and Israel.
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