Türkiye unveils Yildirimhan ICBM with 6,000-km range at SAHA 2026
Türkiye publicly introduced its Yildirimhan intercontinental ballistic missile at the SAHA 2026 defense expo in Istanbul. Developed by the National Defense Ministry R&D Center, the missile boasts a range of 6,000 kilometers, Mach 25 speed, liquid nitrogen tetroxide fuel, and a 3,000-kilogram explosive payload. Defense Minister Yasar Guler called it a “critical force multiplier.”
Türkiye unveiled its most advanced long-range missile system to date, the Yildirimhan intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), at the SAHA 2026 International Defence and Aerospace Exhibition in Istanbul. The National Defense Ministry R&D Center announced that the Yildirimhan can reach Mach 25 and has a reported range of 6,000 kilometers (3,728 miles). The missile uses liquid nitrogen tetroxide as fuel and is powered by four rocket propulsion engines. Its combination of high speed and maneuverability is designed to limit opposing early warning and interception capabilities, making it “a critical force multiplier under modern warfare doctrines,” according to the ministry.
Defense Minister’s remarks
Defense Minister Yasar Guler stated that the newly launched products would benefit the country and the Turkish Armed Forces, adding that Türkiye’s defense industry has boosted production capacity through major investments and transformed into a high-technology ecosystem. “This point we have reached is a source of pride, but developing technology and diversifying needs require us to constantly renew ourselves,” Guler said. He emphasized that R&D-focused product development plays a decisive role in strengthening the defense industry sustainably. Guler later opened the exhibition stand featuring the Yildirimhan, as well as other critical platforms.
Strategic context
The unveiling comes as Türkiye continues to expand its defense capabilities, including in unmanned systems, air defense, aviation, and space-related platforms. The Yildirimhan differs from similar systems with its liquid rocket fuel and a 3,000-kilogram explosive payload. SAHA 2026, which runs through Saturday, brings together defense firms, procurement officials, and military delegations from Türkiye and abroad, with Anadolu as the global communication partner. The missile’s range—capable of reaching most of Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia—signals Ankara’s growing independent military reach.
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