Turkey has received its own APKWS analog

10 October, 2024 Turkish KUSS ground-based missile system, October 2024. Photo credits: SavunmaSanayiST The Turkish military has received the first KUSS ground-based missile system that uses aircraft missiles with a laser guidance system.

Turkish publication SavunmaSanayiST reported on this. The system is a launcher for four guided missiles on the chassis of the Toyota Hilux SUV. The vehicle's roof houses the Aselsan Karakurt optical reconnaissance and laser guidance system.

It is self-sufficient and can independently detect targets on the battlefield, fire, and guide missiles to their target. However, due to the standardized illumination means (STANAG 3733), guidance can be delegated to other assets, such as drones or infantry with the appropriate target illuminator.

The optical module of the KUSS system, October 2024. Photo credits: SavunmaSanayiST

Like the American APKWS system, the launcher uses localized 70-mm Turkish-made HYDRA air-launched unguided missiles equipped with a laser guidance system known as CIRIT. The range of KUSS's effective operation against ground targets is not disclosed, but similar European-made systems are capable of hitting targets at a distance of up to 5,000 meters.

Developed by the Turkish company Roketsan, the CIRIT missile is designed to fill the gap between conventional unguided 70mm missiles and heavier anti-tank missiles. It has high accuracy and is capable of countering soft targets and light armored vehicles. In addition, the company notes the missile's potential for use as an interceptor against air targets.

However, there is no information about the presence of a non-contact fuze in the system. The munition is adapted for use both from aircraft and ground vehicles and even seaborne platforms equipped with appropriate launchers.