Turkey has unveiled a new ballistic missile concept, designated “Yıldırımhan”, during the SAHA 2026 exhibition, describing it as the country’s first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM)-class system within its evolving defence architecture.
The missile has a range of approximately 6,000 kilometres, placing it within the category of long-range strategic strike systems. It is also said to achieve speeds ranging between Mach 9 and Mach 25, classifying it as a hypersonic-capable weapon designed to compress adversary response times and challenge existing air and missile defence networks.
The “Yıldırımhan” is powered by four engines and uses a propellant based on nitrogen tetroxide, a commonly used oxidiser in ballistic missile systems due to its high performance and storability.
The programme reflects Ankara’s broader ambition to strengthen its long-range deterrence capabilities and expand domestic defence manufacturing capacity. However, no official specifications have been released regarding the missile’s guidance systems or warhead configuration.
