Turkey’s ANKA-III UCAV has achieved a historic milestone by successfully launching ASELSAN’s TOLUN laser-guided munition from its internal weapon bay. The test demonstrates the aircraft’s growing stealth and strike capabilities, strengthening its position in the next generation of unmanned combat aerial vehicles.
Key Test Details
The trial took place at an altitude of 20,000 feet with the UCAV cruising at 180 knots. Successfully releasing a precision munition from the internal weapons bay is a significant advancement, as it reduces the aircraft’s radar cross-section and enhances survivability in contested air defense environments.
Strategic Significance
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Stealth Enhancement: Deploying munitions from inside the fuselage ensures reduced radar detection, a feature critical for future air warfare.
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Precision Strike Capability: The integration of ASELSAN’s TOLUN laser-guided bomb further boosts ANKA-III’s ability to conduct accurate, long-range strikes.
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Operational Edge: This achievement underscores Turkey’s progress in developing indigenous, advanced UAV platforms capable of competing on the global stage.
Previous Milestones
Earlier, Turkish Aerospace had already tested the release of the same munition from ANKA-III’s external weapon station. The new internal bay launch marks a leap forward in the UCAV’s operational versatility and stealth potential.
