Baykar’s AKINCI UCAV test-fired two new loitering munitions from ROKETSAN, the jet-powered multirole EREN and propeller-driven ALPAGUT, in the same test.

This test is the first officially announced test for both loitering munitions, with EREN being unveiled during the IDEF25 defence exhibition held towards the end of July 2025. On the other hand, ALPAGUT was unveiled during the SAHA EXPO 2022 exhibition as a joint work between ROKETSAN and STM.

Both loitering munitions were guided to what appear to be coordinates on the sea, likely to validate flight control capabilities.

Additionally, a small pod that appears to be for data link between AKINCI and either one of the loitering munitions is seen on the left wing, next to the EREN loitering munition.

With this test, AKINCI has added two new loitering munition options to its armament. The UCAV previously test-fired Baykar’s KEMANKEŞ 1 loitering munition, which is also jet-powered like EREN but has more emphasis on endurance than speed.

EREN

EREN, unveiled during IDEF25, is a multirole munition that can engage both surface and air targets with a limited loitering capability due to its missile-like layout prioritising speed over endurance. A turbojet engine powers the munition weighing 35 kg and can reach a range of 100 km. The IIR seeker allows EREN to acquire both surface and air targets (Slow-flying ones).

EREN can be launched from aircraft and land vehicles. During IDEF25, two configurations were shown for land-based use. The first one, using a truck as the platform, has a notable magazine depth and AESA radars to detect airborne threats. The other one, using an NMS 4x4 tactical wheeled vehicle as the platform with four launchers, can be regarded as the more mobile option.

ALPAGUT

ROKETSAN and STM have jointly developed ALPAGUT as a multi-platform loitering munition with an electrically-driven propeller and gimbal EO/IR system. The munition can loiter for one hour and reach a range of 60+ km. Different warhead options with a weight of 11 kg are available for ALPAGUT as HE-FRAG, thermobaric, and shaped charge.

ALPAGUT can be used as a single munition or in swarm formation to overwhelm enemy defences.

Author: Kaan Azman

Editor:Özgür Ekşi