Turkey has successfully conducted the first live-fire test of its SOM-J ALCM (Air-Launched Cruise Missile) from a Turkish Air Force F-16 Block 40, marking a significant step in its defense capabilities. The test took place on March 21, 2025, as announced by the country’s Minister of Industry and Technology, Mehmet Fatih Kacır.
The SOM-J missile, developed by TÜBİTAK SAGE and manufactured by Roketsan, has been in development for at least six years and is designed to target both land and sea objectives. During the test, the missile was released over the sea, successfully maneuvering towards a target—a container mounted on a barge. Although the missile was inert and equipped with test markings in an orange hue, it pierced through the target upon impact without detonating.
This test followed a series of preliminary developments dating back to 2018, when the SOM-J appeared as a test article on an F-16 from the 401st Test Squadron. Visual evidence of a SOM-J missile, designated KTM-2, was later captured in September 2021, featuring a black body devoid of the test markings.
As for the future of SOM-J, Kacır emphasized that it will be integrated with the KAAN fifth-generation stealth fighter and the Kizilelma UCAV (Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle), showcasing Turkey's commitment to advancing its military technology. The missile was originally intended for the Turkish F-35’s internal bays, indicating its advanced design tailored for modern warfare.
The recent live-fire test involved an F-16 carrying the SOM-J test article alongside another version indicated by “SOM-J KTM-2” on its left wing. According to Kacır, the missile features “post-fire control via data link,” enabling it to perform operations such as retargeting or mission cancellation, which adds a layer of sophistication crucial for contemporary combat scenarios.
Footage of the launch showcased the missile’s trajectory, demonstrating its ability to bank and maneuver towards its target, with multiple viewpoints captured by chase aircraft. The use of a targeting pod allowed for real-time viewing of the missile’s performance as it approached and struck the mock target.
Moreover, Kacır revealed additional features of the SOM-J including an infrared seeker head and low radar visibility, enhancing its operational effectiveness. While the exact range and navigation systems used during this test have not been disclosed, similar missile classes generally employ GPS and INS (Inertial Navigation System).
The test also comes on the heels of another significant announcement by Turkey’s Ministry of National Defence, showing an F-16D Block 50+ equipped with AGM-84K-1 SLAM-ER missiles, among other armaments. This highlights the Turkish Air Force's enhanced payloads and tactical flexibility with the introduction of these advanced weapons systems. Ankara acquired the SLAM-ER under a Foreign Military Sales program back in 2006, indicating a long-term strategy for modernizing its aerial capabilities.
In a promotional tweet about the SOM-J test, Kacır expressed enthusiasm, stating, “SOM-J seyir füzemiz, suüstü bir platforma karşı yapılan ilk test atışında hedefi başarıyla vurdu,” or “Our SOM-J cruise missile successfully hit the target during its first test firing against a surface platform.” This success underlines the missile’s potential as a force multiplier for the Turkish Armed Forces, specifically in long-range engagements with surface threats.
As Turkey continues to develop its indigenous defense technology, the SOM-J serves as a testament to its efforts toward self-sufficiency in military capabilities. With evolving threats in the global arena, further advancements in such technologies are critical for national security and defense.
In conclusion, the successful live-fire test of the SOM-J highlights not just a technological milestone for Turkey but also its broader ambitions to strengthen its defense industry against external pressures and regional dynamics. By integrating cutting-edge systems like the SOM-J with existing platforms, Turkey aims to enhance its operational efficacy in various military scenarios while significantly investing in indigenous production capacities.
