Turkiye Atmaca Missile Achieves First Underwater Launch

Turkiye has achieved a significant military technological milestone with its domestically designed Atmaca anti-ship cruise missile successfully completing its first underwater firing test. The achievement places Turkiye among a select group of nations possessing submarine-launched cruise missile technology, marking a major advancement for the country’s naval capabilities and defense industry.

Haluk Görgün, head of the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB), announced the breakthrough on social media, declaring, “Atmaca, the steel sword of the Blue Homeland, will now hit its target from under the sea.” In his statement, Görgün emphasized the strategic significance of this capability, noting that underwater guided missile firing technology is “possessed by only a few countries in the world.” The successful test confirms Turkiye entry into this exclusive group of nations with advanced submarine weapon systems.

According to information released by Turkiye National Defense Ministry, the missile was launched from the TCG Preveze submarine, demonstrating the system’s versatility across naval platforms. Video footage of the test showed the missile successfully transitioning from underwater launch to aerial flight before reaching its target. This multi-environment capability significantly expands the tactical deployment options for Turkish naval forces.

The Atmaca missile represents a cornerstone of Turkiye domestic defense industry development. Designed between 2009 and 2018 by Turkish defense firm Roketsan, the missile entered the Turkish armed forces’ inventory in 2021. Initially conceived as a high-precision anti-ship missile for surface warfare on fast patrol boats, frigates, and corvettes, this latest achievement extends its operational capabilities to Turkiye submarine fleet.

This technological advancement significantly enhances Turkiye naval deterrence capabilities in the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions. Submarine-launched cruise missiles provide strategic advantages including stealth deployment, extended range, and the ability to strike targets with minimal warning. The successful test demonstrates Turkiye growing self-sufficiency in advanced weapons development and production.

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The Atmaca missile’s submarine launch capability aligns with Turkiye “Blue Homeland” (Mavi Vatan) maritime doctrine, which emphasizes asserting rights and interests across surrounding seas. Görgün referenced this connection directly in his announcement, positioning the missile as a critical component of Turkiye maritime strategy. The development supports the country’s broader defense industry goals, with Görgün stating that Turkish defense technology “is moving forward for a fully independent future on land, air and sea.”

The successful test also highlights the growing capabilities of Turkiye defense industrial base. Görgün acknowledged the Naval Forces Command, Roketsan, engineers, technicians, and subcontractors who contributed to the achievement, underscoring the collaborative nature of the country’s defense ecosystem and its increasing ability to develop sophisticated weapons systems independently.

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