ROKETSAN, the striking force of the Turkish defence industry, and Baykar, its standard-bearer in the sky, have successfully completed another strategic test. The EREN High-Speed Multi-Purpose Loitering Munition, developed by ROKETSAN, scored a direct hit on its target during its first air-to-air firing from a Bayraktar AKINCI UCAV. This test has opened a new chapter in the engagement capability of Turkish UAVs against aerial targets.
A critical threshold has been crossed in the EREN project, where ROKETSAN combines its laser-guided munition expertise with loitering munition technology. ROKETSAN General Manager Murat İkinci announced the moments the munition was fired from the Bayraktar AKINCI UCAV and the destruction of the target with a post on his social media account, accompanied by the note: "Thank goodness we have ERENs protecting our country!"
First-Ever Air-to-Air Mission
The most striking aspect of the shared test was Murat İkinci's emphasis on the first air-to-air firing. Testing loitering munitions, which have hitherto generally been considered within the air-to-ground strike concept, as an aerial intercept weapon on the AKINCI represents a revolution in operational concept.
This capability proves that the Bayraktar AKINCI can neutralise not only tanks or bunkers on the ground, but also other airborne UAVs, helicopters, or low-speed aerial vehicles using the EREN munition. The AKINCI consolidates its fighter role by deploying EREN against aerial targets detected by its advanced radars (such as the MURAD AESA).
Tribute to Martyr Eren Bülbül
The project stands out not only for its technical success but also for its spiritual significance. The munition was named after 15-year-old Eren Bülbül, who was martyred by terrorists in the Maçka district of Trabzon for pointing out their location to soldiers during a clash.
In a statement following the successful test, Murat İkinci said: "Our High-Speed Multi-Purpose Loitering Munition EREN scored a direct hit on its target during its first air-to-air firing from the Bayraktar AKINCI. On this occasion, I once again commemorate our martyr Eren Bülbül, after whom our munition is named, with mercy."
Having previously proven its success in long-range firing tests, EREN is now counting down the days to enter the inventory of the Turkish Armed Forces with this new air-to-air capability.
