Turkey Integrates Cakır Cruise Missile into Marlin Armed Unmanned Marine Vehicle

Roketsan’s Çakır Cruise Missile has been integrated into the Marlin Armed Unmanned Marine Vehicle (SİDA), jointly developed by ASELSAN and Sefine Shipyard, marking a new step in Turkey’s naval defense programs.

The Marlin SİDA, already in the Turkish Navy inventory, is the first armed unmanned surface vessel featuring electronic warfare capabilities. Its modular design allows the addition of new weapon systems, with the Çakır missile now enhancing the vessel’s firepower.

The configuration was showcased at IDEF 2025 in Istanbul, drawing attention as the first demonstration of the Marlin fitted with cruise missiles.

The Çakır Cruise Missile, designed by Roketsan, can be launched from land, sea, and air platforms. It is powered by the domestically built KTJ-1750 turbojet engine from Kale Jet Engines. With three-dimensional mission planning, selectable strike points, and a specialized warhead, Çakır offers precision engagement under all weather conditions. Its network-based data link allows operators to update targets or abort missions mid-flight.

The Marlin unmanned platform measures 15 meters in length with an aluminum hull, capable of reaching speeds of 36 knots. It can be deployed from bases, ports, or amphibious ships, providing flexibility in naval operations. Named after the fast-moving fish, Marlin is equipped with electro-optical systems, navigation sensors, autonomy modules, and ASELSAN’s electronic warfare suite, making it the first unmanned surface vessel to represent Turkey within NATO.