Defence Turkey: Roketsan signed MoU with Eurocopter in 2011 IDEF fair for the integration of 2.75" Laser Guided Missile "Cirit" with EC 635 helicopter platforms. The firing tests of "Cirit" are planned to be realized in the South Africa with the participation of senior military officials from many countries in 2012. What is the current status of this MoU? Are there any studies being performed in order for "Cirit" to be used in other Eurocopter helicopter platforms such as Tiger? In which foreign markets do you plan to enter with "Cirit"?
Our first indigenous missile Cirit, which was developed by Roketsan, has many innovations compared to its other competitors in the market. In addition to its first launch for mass production in the market, it is the only missile that has 8 km range, multi-purpose warhead and insensitive munitions. Besides, since it was developed through local possibilities, it is not subject to certain international restrictive regulations such as ITAR and as a result it comes to the forefront in certain markets.
Within this context, not only the military authorities but also the platform (helicopter, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, Land Vehicle, and etc.) manufacturers have interest on Cirit. As you also mention, the integration studies of Cirit with EC635 Platform are still underway. Unfortunately, the planned firing was delayed due to the administrative reasons arisen in Eurocopter. We will be realizing such firings at a later time. Besides, we have started negotiations for the integration with Eurocopter’s Tiger Platform with German MBDA Company. The negotiations are proceeding positively and I think we will give good news to you soon.