Kale Jet Engines, a subsidiary of Turkey’s Kale Group, signed a contract with Brazilian defense contractor SIATT to supply the KTJ-3200 Turbojet Missile Engine, marking Turkey’s first-ever jet engine export, during the LAAD Defence and Security Fair in Brazil on April 4, the company announced on the X social media platform.
The contract includes export and integration of the KTJ-3200 turbojet missile engine into Brazil’s MANSUP-ER anti-ship missile system, developed by SIATT, officials said.
SIATT, a subsidiary of the UAE-based EDGE Group, leads the development of the MANSUP-ER missile. EDGE acquired a 50 percent stake in SIATT in 2023 as part of its strategy to expand its global defense footprint.
MANSUP-ER represents an extended-range variant of the baseline MANSUP missile.
The upgraded variant replaces the original rocket propulsion system with advanced turbojet technology, significantly enhancing operational range, according to defense analysts.
The KTJ-3200 engine is expected to provide propulsion for the MANSUP-ER to reach ranges exceeding 200 kilometers (124 miles). The missile is equipped with a 150-kilogram warhead, active radar seeker for precision targeting and adaptive sea-skimming capabilities for enhanced survivability.
Brazil’s navy placed its first official order for the enhanced MANSUP-ER missile system in 2023, demonstrating its commitment to advancing maritime defense capabilities.
The KTJ-3200 turbojet engine supplied by Kale Jet Engines is also anticipated to be used in missile systems set to enter service with the UAE navy.
The KTJ-3200 is Turkey’s first indigenous turbojet missile engine, developed by Kale Jet Engines as part of the “Turbojet Engines Development Project,” initiated by the Presidency of the Defense Industry (SSB).
This project was launched in 2013 to eliminate Turkey’s dependence on foreign suppliers, particularly French-made TR40 turbojet engines, which previously powered the SOM air-launched cruise missiles and the Atmaca anti-ship missiles.
Before the KTJ-3200 entered service, the TR40 engines supplied by France powered Turkey’s SOM, SOM-J and Atmaca missile systems. However, reliance on these imported engines posed strategic risks due to potential embargoes and export restrictions.
The KTJ-3200, capable of generating up to 3,200 newtons of thrust, measures 330 mm in diameter and weighs only 50 kilograms. Its low specific fuel consumption sets it apart from similar engines on the market, providing greater efficiency and extended missile range.