Akinci UCAV programme progresses with latest tests
The second prototype of the Akinci UCAV, developed by Turkish manufacturer Baykar Makina, successfully performed high-altitude and high-speed tests on 5 September.
This followed the first test flight in August. The first prototype took to the air in December 2019.
Akinci is designed for up to 24h of continuous operations at a maximum altitude of 40,000ft. The UCAV has a 20m wingspan and can carry a payload of 1,350kg.
Its MTOW is 5,500kg and the UCAV is powered by two 450hp engines. However, Akinci can also be equipped with 750hp engines or locally made 240hp engines.
Shephard Defence Insight states that Akinci will operate with various ammunition configurations, such as Cirit guided rockets, MAM-L precision-guided bombs and MAM-C smart bombs.
The UCAV is expected to enter service with the Turkish Armed Forces in 2021.
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