| TAI Anka-3 | |
|---|---|
 TAI Anka-3 (center) flying in formation with aTAI Hürjet (left) and aTAI Hürkuş (right) in 2024 | |
| General information | |
| Type | Flying wing typestealthUCAV |
| National origin | Turkey |
| Manufacturer | Turkish Aerospace Industries |
| Status | Prototypeflight testing |
| Number built | 2 prototypes |
| History | |
| Introduction date | 2026 (expected) |
| First flight | 28 December 2023[1][2][3] |
TheAnka-3 is aflying wing typestealthUCAV currently in development byTurkish Aerospace Industries.[4][5][6] It is one of two Turkish jet-powered stealth UCAVs developed as part ofProject MIUS, along with theBayraktar Kızılelma.
The runway tests of the Anka-3 began in April 2023.[7][8][9] Itsmaiden flight took place on 28 December 2023.[1][10][2][3] The UCAV was airborne for one hour and ten minutes. On 20 August 2024, the Anka-3 successfully performed its first in-flight landing gear retraction test, marking another significant milestone in its development.[11]
On 20 September 2024, the Anka-3 successfully completed its first live-fire test, striking its target with precision. This test, conducted with the collaboration ofAselsan andRoketsan, represents a milestone for Türkiye’s rapidly advancing defense industry. The live-fire test was carried out using the AF500 electro-optic camera system, produced by Aselsan, and the Teber-82 guidance kit, developed by Roketsan.[12]
On 30 October 2024, a TAI Anka-3 UCAV armed with acruise missile became the first drone in history to be controlled by another aircraft in theloyal wingman role, representing an advancement in remote control capabilities for military aviation.[13][better source needed]
On 13 January 2025, a TAI Anka-3 successfully completed a strike mission test with internal munitions such as the TOLUN bomb.[14]
On 25 June 2025, a TAI Anka-3 prototype crashed during a test flight conducted as part of the Anatolian Eagle 2025 international exercise.[15][16]
Initially powered by a single engine,TAI plans to equip the Anka-3 with two TEI TF-10000 turbofan engines.[17] These domestically developed engines are expected to provide theUCAV withsupersonic capabilities, allowing it to accompany the crewedKAAN combat aircraft.[17]
Designed for high-speed operations, the Anka-3 offers both air-to-ground and air-to-air capabilities. Its low radar signature enhances survivability, while its endurance of up to 10 hours and high altitude capabilities enable long-range missions.[18] The UCAV can operate autonomously withline-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight control.[19]
Beyond its combat role, the Anka-3 can perform intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, as well aselectronic warfare. Future variants may be larger with increased payload capacity, further expanding its capabilities.[20][19]
The Anka-3 is part of a broader Turkish drone ecosystem, including theŞimşek and Süper Şimşek drones. These uncrewed systems work together to provide a comprehensive aerial capability.
Production of the Anka-3 is underway, with plans to deliver multiple units by 2028.[19] The development of the Anka-3 and its associated technologies reflects Turkey's aim to reduce reliance on foreign military equipment and establish a domestic defense industry.[18]
The Anka-3's emergence is part of a global trend towards integrating uncrewed systems into military operations. Its capabilities and the broader Turkish drone program have attracted international attention, with countries likeIndonesia expressing interest in acquiring similar systems.[19]
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era