ROKETSAN has revealed the TAYFUN Block 4 ballistic missile with hypersonic speed and more size to carry a larger warhead and reach longer ranges during IDEF25.
The new variant of TAYFUN, measuring 10 m in length and 938 mm in diameter, is far larger than the baseline variant, with 6.5 m in length and 610 mm in diameter. With this size, it is also the heaviest at a weight of 7200 kg, whereas the baseline variant weighs 2100 kg.
While the range has not been discussed on any ground, it is obvious that a missile of this size will have a longer range.
TurDef learned that Tayfun Block 3, as the preceding variant, is the one used in the test where the sea target was hit with minimal deviation. This variant is longer than the baseline TAYFUN at a length of eight meters. TurDef previously discussed this variant with more length to support longer range engagements based on the inspections of two different launch canisters.
ROKETSAN underlined the hypersonic speed for TAYFUN Block 4. Due to this, it is likely following a quasi-ballistic trajectory within the upper layers of the atmosphere, which are too high for long-range air defence missiles and too low for exo-atmospheric interceptors. Some of the new ballistic missiles are fitted with this capability in order to evade interception with manoeuvring.
In terms of the warhead, a detail is worth noting from the given specifications. Whereas the baseline TAYFUN is stated to have a pre-formed fragmentation warhead, TAYFUN Block 4’s warhead is stated to include penetration capabilities. This hints at some level of bunker-busting capability, especially against bunkers or embedded strategic targets.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor:Özgür Ekşi
