Missile Cirit

Development of the missile system began in 2004 to provide attack helicopters with precision strike capabilities. First shown publicly in 2007, the system was designed from the outset as an all-up round rather than an add-on guidance kit for existing unguided rockets. This development encompassed custom components, including a semi-active laser seeker, actuation and control systems, bearings, computer hardware, and software. Production commenced in 2010, and the system entered service with the Turkish Armed Forces in 2012, followed by deliveries to the United Arab Emirates in 2014. An unpowered micro munition variant based on the missile entered serial production in 2018. In 2024, a mobile, truck-mounted variant was developed for use as a counter-unmanned aerial system platform.

The missile features a semi-active laser homing seeker and a guidance section mated to a multipurpose warhead with Class 5 Insensitive Munition properties. The warhead combines armor-piercing capability with behind-armor anti-personnel and incendiary effects. The propulsion system consists of a reduced-smoke engine with Insensitive Munition properties, connected to the rear section by a roll bearing that allows rotation during flight. Four stabilizing surfaces located at the rear of the missile ensure flight stability. The system is delivered as an all-up round in a specialized canister and launch pod. It is compatible with standard rocket launchers, including the LAU-61, LAU-68, LAU-130, LAU-131, M260, and M261, as well as digital launcher systems utilizing MIL-STD-1760 databus capabilities.

The missile is operated by Albania, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Chad, Spain, the Philippines, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates. It is integrated onto various aerial platforms, including the T-129 Atak, AH-1P Cobra, AH-1W Super Cobra, and EC635 helicopters, as well as the Salex ES Falco. During testing in January 2010, the missile successfully engaged a moving target while fired from a moving helicopter. Agreements have also been established to integrate a counter-unmanned aerial system variant of the missile into remote weapon stations.