The Turkish defence industry continues to change the rules of the game in the field with new capabilities it brings to unmanned aerial platforms. TAI shared a highly striking test flight video on its official social media accounts. In the published footage, the dual-engine AKSUNGUR UAV platform is seen carrying two Süper Şimşek (Super Lightning) under its wings. This development initiates a new operational era where unmanned systems carry and launch each other in air-to-air scenarios. This successful integration directly elevates the striking power and survivability of the carrier platforms to the peak.
The integration of unmanned systems in air warfare constitutes one of the greatest force multipliers for modern armies. TAI engineers are transforming the platforms they develop in line with this vision into an integrated ecosystem where they communicate with each other. Indeed, the recently shared flight footage proves that a heavy-class UCAV can successfully carry a high-speed jet aircraft in the sky. Thus, Türkiye gains a fully domestic and asymmetric striking power in deep strike capabilities.
750 kg Capacity and the Süper Şimşek System
The AKSUNGUR UAV easily carries these heavy systems under its wings thanks to its massive payload capacity of 750 kilograms. The Süper Şimşek system seen in the video, with its jet engine structure, can approach supersonic speeds when launched from the air.
Engineers have integrated the system directly into the AKSUNGUR's mission computer. Thus, pilots can manage both the carrier UCAV and the jet under its wings in real-time from the ground control station. Additionally, the system incorporates algorithms highly resistant to electronic jamming. Therefore, this paired structure holds the potential to penetrate enemy air defence networks and destroy strategic targets with great precision.
Süper Şimşek: Transformation from Target Drone to Lethal Kamikaze UAV
In the past, TAI engineers used the original Şimşek platform as a target drone to test domestic air defence systems. The vehicle mimicked enemy fighter jets or missiles in the sky. However, the needs of modern asymmetric warfare have rapidly changed this concept.
Today, the enlarged and accelerated Süper Şimşek system undertakes the role of a lethal kamikaze UAV thanks to the warhead integrated into it. These platforms play a critical role, especially in blinding enemy radar systems or destroying air defence batteries (SEAD/DEAD missions). Furthermore, in scenarios where it does not carry a warhead, the vehicle is used as a decoy. The system intentionally attracts enemy missiles towards itself, ensuring that friendly forces can advance safely.
The Stand-Off Strike Concept
This historic integration provides the Turkish Air Force with a unique stand-off strike capability. During an operation, the AKSUNGUR UAV remains in a completely safe zone, without entering enemy air defence range. Then, the UCAV launches the Süper Şimşek systems under its wings, sending only these jets into the dangerous zone.
In conclusion, this concept offers the ability to strike deep into enemy territory without risking million-dollar heavy carrier platforms. In the coming period, these systems targeting enemy assets in swarms will undeniably demonstrate Türkiye's technological superiority in air warfare to the entire world.
