Turkey Successfully Tests SIPER Air Defense System
The Turkish defense industry recently completed successful acceptance trials of the domestically-developed SIPER air and missile defense system. The advanced platform is slated to enter service in 2023 as a highly capable Patriot and S-400 alternative.
Details of the Evaluation Testing
The tests demonstrated engagement capabilities using the SIPER Block 2 missile, which boasts an impressive operating range exceeding 150 km. An earlier test launch validated the Block 1 model, with a 100+ km reach.
The launches prove SIPER’s proficiency in tracking and neutralizing threats including aircraft, cruise missiles, and UAVs across long distances.
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Entering Turkish Military Service
Following the completion of acceptance activities, Turkey’s military will integrate multiple SIPER batteries into its strategic forces inventory over 2023.
The initial operating capability will involve the shorter range Block 1 missile until the longer range Block 2 completes qualifications enabling mass production.
Maturing Layered Defenses
As the upper-tier asset in Turkey’s integrated air defense system, SIPER joins platforms like the Korkut, Hisar-O, and Sungur in providing overlapping protection.
This layered cluster of guns, short-range systems, and long-range SIPER missiles defeats saturation attacks across altitudes.
Domestic Alternative to Imported Systems
SIPER emerged after Turkey was denied procurement of the U.S. Patriot surface-to-air missile system nearly a decade ago.
Faced with sourcing the Russian S-400 instead, Turkey cultivated expertise to develop an indigenous solution matching capabilities of Western and Russian options.
Advanced System Architecture
Built leveraging Turkish defense giants Aselsan, Roketsan, and TÜBİTAK SAGE, SIPER incorporates cutting-edge radar, command and control, launcher, and missile technology.
Each highly automated battery can coordinate the launch of up to 48 missiles from 8 transporter erector launchers against saturating raids.
Ongoing Testing and Refinement
While undergoing operational integration, engineers will put SIPER missiles through additional test scenarios to validate performance at greater distances and altitudes.
This supports continuous enhancement of the battle management system and missiles as threats evolve.
The successful testing of Turkey’s first indigenous strategic SAM proves national defense self-sufficiency goals are within reach, with more milestones undoubtedly on the horizon.
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