Istanbul: Turkish defense firm STM has introduced its long-range kamikaze unmanned aerial vehicle system KUZGUN, marking a significant advancement in national long-range strike UAV capabilities. KUZGUN is designed to target strategic locations such as command centers, air defense systems, and radar assets with a range exceeding 1,000 kilometers.

According to Anadolu Agency, STM announced that KUZGUN is equipped with a high-explosive warhead and is intended for deep-strike missions. The system has successfully completed its design phase and initial test flights, with a video of the maiden test flight released by the company. KUZGUN is slated to be showcased at the SAHA 2026 International Defence and Aerospace Exhibition in Istanbul.

STM General Manager Ozgur Guleryuz emphasized the importance of long-range and cost-effective strike systems in modern conflicts, highlighting KUZGUN's role in enhancing Turkey's strategic deterrence. The UAV is equipped with national software, a navigation system resistant to electronic warfare, and capabilities for low-altitude flight, aiming for precision even in challenging environments.

Named after the raven, KUZGUN is designed to be a quiet but effective force on the battlefield. Its development focuses on cross-border operations and strikes on critical targets behind enemy lines. The system's aerodynamic design contributes to its high survivability, and it can be launched from mobile land platforms or fixed launchers, offering operational flexibility without needing runway infrastructure.

With an endurance of more than six hours, KUZGUN can conduct swift attacks on distant targets. It is optimized for environments with intense GNSS jamming, featuring a jamming-resistant navigation architecture. The system allows for fully autonomous flight based on predefined routes and targets, achieving GNSS-supported precision in hitting its objectives.

Despite its total weight of 200 kilograms, KUZGUN boasts high speed and is anticipated to be a crucial asset in strategic operations due to its potent munition. STM reports that KUZGUN UMK has a flight endurance of six hours, a takeoff weight of 20 kilograms, and can operate at an altitude of 3,500 meters above mean sea level.