Roketsan Integrates Cirit Laser-Guided Missiles onto Toyota Hilux
At the SAHA 2024 exhibition, Turkish defense giant Roketsan showcased an intriguing and highly practical development: the integration of its Cirit 70mm laser-guided missile system onto a Toyota Hilux. While the Hilux has long been a staple in conflict zones due to its durability and reliability, this new configuration elevates its status as a low-cost, mobile platform capable of precision firepower. This move is particularly relevant for nations or forces operating under budget constraints but still requiring high-tech capabilities.
The Toyota Hilux, often seen in asymmetric warfare scenarios, has a reputation for its robustness and versatility. From Africa to the Middle East, the vehicle has earned a place in the military toolkit for both state actors and non-state groups, making it a widely recognized platform in modern warfare. Now, with Roketsan’s Cirit missile launcher attached, the Hilux is more than just a "technical" vehicle; it becomes a precision strike weapon, capable of taking on a variety of targets, especially in environments where conventional armored vehicles are not viable due to cost or logistical constraints.
The Cirit missile itself represents a significant leap in missile technology. It fills the gap between unguided rockets and expensive guided missile systems. Offering precision at a relatively low cost, the Cirit has already seen use on various Turkish military platforms, including helicopters, land vehicles, and unmanned surface vessels. With a range of up to 8 kilometers, the missile is designed for both air-to-ground and ground-to-ground operations, making it an ideal fit for mobile platforms like the Hilux.
This particular integration includes several upgrades to the Hilux beyond just a missile launcher. The flatbed of the truck carries a turret outfitted with four Cirit missiles, ready to fire on command. For target acquisition, the system uses Aselsan's Karakurt electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor, mounted on top of the vehicle’s cabin. This system, complete with a laser designator, allows operators to identify and lock onto targets with a high degree of accuracy, enhancing the missile's strike precision.
The Hilux-based platform is designed to be nimble, providing mobility and flexibility on difficult terrain where heavier vehicles may struggle. The vehicle's compact size allows it to be used in hit-and-run tactics or quick deployments in rural or urban environments. The combination of mobility and advanced firepower offers a valuable alternative to more expensive systems, particularly for countries with limited defense budgets or those facing unconventional threats.
Roketsan's decision to mount the Cirit missile on a Toyota Hilux points to broader trends in global defense procurement. Similar to the U.S. military’s VAMPIRE system, which enables civilian vehicles to fire laser-guided APKWS II rockets, this setup highlights the increasing popularity of modifying civilian vehicles for military use. These platforms are not only cost-effective but can be deployed rapidly in combat zones without the logistical burden associated with armored vehicles.
The Cirit missile itself is available with three different warheads: anti-personnel, high-explosive, and thermobaric. This flexibility in payload makes it suitable for a wide range of missions, from engaging light vehicles to targeting fortified positions. The relatively low cost of the missile, when compared to more advanced anti-tank systems, means that it can be used in a more liberal fashion during combat, providing forces with a greater margin for error.
As presented during the SAHA 2024 exhibition, Roketsan’s Cirit-equipped Hilux exemplifies the push toward practical, cost-efficient, and highly mobile military solutions. The system's affordability and effectiveness are expected to appeal to nations and military forces that need adaptable firepower in fast-paced, unconventional warfare environments. Furthermore, this configuration could find particular resonance in regions like Africa and the Middle East, where insurgencies and unconventional warfare demand agile, affordable systems that pack a significant punch.
In conclusion, Roketsan's integration of the Cirit missile onto the Toyota Hilux is a forward-thinking approach to modern warfare. By combining the Hilux's proven durability with the precision of Cirit laser-guided missiles, this platform delivers an effective and economical solution for military forces operating in challenging environments. The combination of mobility, precision firepower, and affordability sets this system apart as a practical alternative to more traditional, expensive military vehicles, ensuring its relevance in the conflicts of tomorrow.
