The KARGU loitering munition, designed and developed domestically by STM, aims to address evolving battlefield needs, providing the Turkish Armed Forces with versatile, rapid-response technology. This latest development reflects STM’s efforts to bolster KARGU’s effectiveness against various targets, including armoured land vehicles and fortified positions. According to STM’s General Manager Özgür Güleryüz, “KARGU has proven its ability to be deployed against mobile and stationary land-based targets, durable structures, and armoured land vehicles with its armour-piercing warhead.”
This new capability builds on KARGU’s established use with anti-personnel munitions, which have been effective in various Turkish security operations since the UAV entered service in 2018. Operators in the field can now swiftly switch between anti-personnel and armour-piercing warheads, offering flexibility and responsiveness. STM reports that the KARGU system has already proven valuable to Turkish forces and may also be appealing for export, with its multi-role capability suited for a range of combat needs.
In addition to the armour-piercing warhead, STM is in the final stages of developing an RF (Radio-Frequency) seeker for KARGU, which will enable it to detect and neutralise enemy radar and electronic warfare systems. Once deployed, this addition will provide Turkish forces with a cost-effective, versatile tool against electronic threats. Güleryüz highlighted the strategic value, stating, “The RF seeker will allow KARGU to detect and destroy enemy radar and electronic warfare systems.”
KARGU’s compact and agile design enhances its effectiveness in complex, high-risk environments. It can be deployed in under a minute and carried easily by a single soldier, making it a practical asset for rapid deployment. Equipped with advanced artificial intelligence, image processing, and silent operational capability, the UAV is difficult to detect and can deliver precise, targeted strikes on both stationary and moving targets. Operating on the “Man-in-the-Loop” principle, KARGU remains under the control of an operator, allowing real-time reconnaissance and attack.
This versatile UAV system, which comprises an attack drone platform and a mobile ground control station, has a range of up to 10 kilometres and can remain airborne for over 30 minutes. It is equipped with electro-optical and infrared cameras, enabling effective day and night operations. KARGU also incorporates STM’s KERKES Project, allowing swarm functionality and GPS-independent operations.
Since its introduction in 2018, KARGU has been deployed in counter-terrorism and special operations, gaining recognition in Türkiye and internationally. By 2024, it had been exported to over 10 countries across three continents, with more than 5,000 units produced to date.
