Turkish Air Force Plans Order for Over 50 ANKA III Stealth Drones by 2026
Türkiye's Air Force plans to order over 50 ANKA III stealth drones by 2026 as Turkish Aerospace Industries moves from design to production. The program emphasizes operational readiness and integration, with recent flight tests confirming autopilot functions and paving the way for autonomous operations. The ANKA III, featuring an indigenous engine and advanced AESA radar, is set to become a key component of Türkiye's future airpower capabilities.
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Türkiye's Air Force is set to order more than 50 ANKA III stealth drones as Turkish Aerospace Industries transitions the program from design to production in preparation for a 2026 industrial cycle. This shift emphasizes operational availability and integration rather than incremental development.
No procurement contract has been finalized, but planning for training and maintenance is underway. Recent flight tests validate autopilot functions and support a move toward autonomous operations. The design freeze enables stable production and supplier commitments, with two updated prototypes planned for 2026.
The ANKA III, with a maximum take-off weight of 6.5 tonnes, can carry 1.2 to 1.6 tonnes of payload and has demonstrated precision-guided munitions release. The program aims for a layered mission architecture and is integrating an AESA radar to enhance capabilities. With a focus on an indigenous engine, the ANKA III is positioned as a core operational asset for Türkiye's future airpower.
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