Turkey Brings UAV-Launched Ballistic Missile Into Service
New IHA-230 system developed by Roketsan expands long-range strike capabilities and reflects a shift toward autonomous, high-speed firepower integration in modern warfare
Photo: Roketsan website https://www.roketsan.com.tr/en/products/uav-230-air-surface-ballistic-s…
Turkey’s defense industry continues to strengthen its position at the forefront of global technology, significantly enhancing the firepower of both its national armed forces and NATO.
The Turkish Ministry of Defense announced on June 4 that the new hypersonic-capable air-launched ballistic missile, the IHA-230, has entered active service. The system is designed for launch from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Developed and manufactured by Turkish defense company Roketsan, the new system could enhance NATO forces’ ability to deploy long-range stand-off precision weapons, improving rapid-strike capabilities against high-value targets on the alliance’s southeastern flank, while avoiding the exposure of human pilots to modern battlefield risks.
According to a report by Army Recognition, the missile was originally designed to integrate fully with Turkey’s advanced UAV platforms, including the Akinci and Kizilelma. This combination of high-speed ballistic weaponry and autonomous aerial platforms represents a new phase in Turkey’s long-range strike warfare capabilities.
The system allows forces to reduce reliance on manned fighter aircraft or complex ground-based missile systems for penetration missions. The missile is equipped with a highly accurate guidance system and multiple interchangeable warhead types, giving it strong operational versatility in destroying air defense systems, military command centers, critical infrastructure, and moving naval targets.
In terms of physical specifications, the missile measures 3.4 meters in length, has a diameter of 230 millimeters, and weighs between 225 and 230 kilograms. Its warhead is modular and can accommodate various payload types, including anti-personnel payloads and enhanced warheads designed for armored vehicle destruction. The integration of the missile into Turkey’s operational arsenal reflects a growing shift toward lethal, high-speed firepower delivered from autonomous platforms, providing greater flexibility and continuous support for ground maneuver forces.