Türkiye’s stealth UAV, Anka-III completes landing gear retraction test in flight
Anka 3 takes off from the runway for performance tests (TAI)
Turkish Aerospace Industries’ (TAI) official X account shared images of the Anka-3 turbofan-engined unmanned combat aircraft’s test by closing its landing gear in the air.
The unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), developed within the scope of domestic and national opportunities, achieved its first success by closing its landing gear in the air during flight.
The statement reads, “Anka III, which successfully performed its first flight on Dec. 28, 2023, has left behind another important stage by closing its landing gear in the air. This proud step once again demonstrated Anka III’s superior performance and brought us one step closer to new technologies that will strengthen our country’s defense power. As Anka III prepares to take to the skies with its advanced technology and innovative design, it will make a difference in Turkiye’s defense industry. Anka III, which is getting stronger every day, is counting the days for the security of our homeland.”
Anka-III’s performance specifications include
- Maximum Cruise Speed: 0.7 Mach
- Service ceiling: 40,000 feet
- Payload capacity: 1200 kg.
- Endurance: 10 hours
The Anka-3 boasts shared avionics architecture and GCS (ground control station) with Anka and Anka II UAVs, featuring low radar visibility (stealth), high transit speed, and a high payload capacity.
With Line of Sight/Beyond Line of Sight (Satellite Control) capabilities, it has a maximum takeoff weight of 6,500 kg and a cruise speed of 250 knots/0.42 Mach at 30,000 feet, with a maximum speed of 425 knots/0.7 Mach.
This development signifies Türkiye’s significant progress in unmanned combat aerial vehicles, showcasing its expanding prowess in the country’s defense technology.
