Süper Şimşek is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system developed nationally by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) that can operate at high subsonic speeds. Proving its operational success in joint test flights with ANKA III, Süper Şimşek stands out as an effective platform against air and ground targets.

^{SÜPER ŞİMŞEK (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Technical Specifications

This system has the capacity to carry warheads weighing up to 50 kg. Capable of reaching a range of up to 800 km when launched from the air, the Süper Şimşek stands out for its ability to perform multiple tasks in line with the swarm UAV concept. The Süper Şimşek can reach a speed of 0.85 Mach. Additionally, different configurations equipped with electronic warfare, decoy (deceptive target), and seeker warheads are also produced. The development of the Süper Şimşek is based on the Şimşek UAV system previously developed by TUSAŞ, which is typically used as a target aircraft. The new system represents a significant advancement in terms of speed and payload capacity. The Süper Şimşek has also been adapted for kamikaze missions.

Key Capabilities

Süper Şimşek can be detected by radars in a similar way to fighter jets. This enables it to activate air defense systems, allowing other attack elements to reach their targets. This strategy aims to deceive and destroy air defense systems. ANKA III successfully completed its flight test by taking off with Süper Şimşek integrated under its wings. Süper Şimşek, released from the specified altitude, completed its 50-minute autonomous flight and landed with a parachute. TUSAŞ continues its research on structures where the Şimşek and Süper Şimşek, as well as similar systems, can operate together as swarm UAVs. These platforms aim to provide effective solutions against asymmetric threats in modern battlefields.

^{Süper Şimşek UAV firing test from ANKA-3 UAV (turkishaerospace)}