Turkiye’s Bayraktar Akinci drone successfully tests Tolun guided missile system
A Bayraktar Akinci unmanned combat aerial vehicle is exhibited at Teknofest aerospace and technology festival in Baku, Azerbaijan May 27, 2022. (Reuters Photo)
The Bayraktar Akinci Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (TUAV) has successfully completed a test firing of the domestic Tolun IIR guided munition, equipped with an infrared seeker. This achievement highlights the ongoing success of integrating locally developed munitions and systems under the Bayraktar Akinci Project, led by the Defense Industry Agency.
Test details
On September 17, 2024, the Bayraktar Akinci took off from the Akinci Flight Training and Test Center in Corlu, Tekirdag, carrying three Tolun IIR munitions. The aircraft then proceeded to the Konya-Karapinar Shooting Test and Evaluation Center to conduct the test. From an altitude of 22,000 feet, the Tolun IIR munition hit a target—a wheeled armored personnel carrier (APC)—with precision at a distance of 20 kilometers.
New intelligent domestic munition
Developed by Aselsan, the Tolun IIR features an 80-kilometer firing range and a bidirectional data link that allows real-time image transmission to the control center. This capability enables the munition to lock onto its target effectively with human guidance until the final moment.
Bayraktar Akinci TUAV features
The Bayraktar Akinci is larger and wider than the Bayraktar TB2, with a 20-meter wingspan and the capability to carry numerous domestic smart munitions. An advanced artificial intelligence system equips it, enhancing its awareness of environmental conditions and providing advanced flight and diagnostic functions. Designers have equipped the Akinci with various advanced sensors and radars, enabling it to perform some tasks of fighter jets. Additionally, domestic air-to-air missiles will equip it for air-to-air missions.
Key flight performance criteria:
- Altitude: 40,000 feet
- Endurance: 24 hours
- Dual redundant SATCOM and LOS
- Fully Automatic Flight Control and Triple Redundant Autopilot System
- Automatic Landing and Takeoff without Dependence on Ground Systems
- Navigation with Internal Sensor Fusion without GPS Dependency
Advanced Features:
- Fully automated navigation and route tracking
- Precise automatic takeoff and landing with internal sensor fusion
- Fully automatic taxi and parking
- Support for semi-automatic flight modes
- Error-tolerant and triple redundant sensor fusion
Aselsan Tolun
Launched from air platforms, the Tolun is an integrated GPS/INS-guided munition that targets both soft and hard ground targets.
Technical Specifications:
- Range: 55 NM
- Altitude: 40,000 ft (MSL)
- Circular error probable (CEP): < 15 meters
- Guidance: GPS/INS
- Penetration Capability: Penetrates 1 meter of reinforced concrete from the 35 NM range
Physical Specifications:
- Weight: 145 kg
- Diameter: 17 cm
- Length: 180 cm
Platforms:
- Certification platform: F-16 Block 40
- Potential platforms: Kaan National Combat Aircraft, Hurjet, F-35, UCAVs
