TAI plans to fly new prototypes for the tailless unmanned combat aircraft ANKA III in 2027. While the current engine schedule in the company’s aviation projects continues, the official product page of ANKA III states that the platform can reach a maximum take-off weight of 7 tons, an altitude of approximately 12.2 kilometers and a mission duration of up to 10 hours.
ANKA III completed its first engine start in 2023 and made its first flight on December 28 of the same year. The second prototype also participated in the testing program. It is expected that the new aircraft will contribute to the testing of different systems and expanding the flight envelope.
The tailless hull shape aims to reduce radar visibility and free up space for internal weapon stations. The platform can be configured with different payloads for reconnaissance, surveillance and attack missions.
Among the technical values announced by TAI is a maximum speed of Mach 0.7. However, not every flight needs to use these limits in prototype tests. The program progresses step by step on system reliability and mission software.
Program progresses from second prototype to new configurations
It was not explained in detail what equipment the new prototypes, planned to fly in 2027, will differ from the existing vehicles. Exact information about engine, sensor, communication or ammunition integration will become clear as official announcements arrive.
In addition, the co-operation of manned and unmanned platforms is one of the important topics of the ANKA III program. In such a structure, secure data link, task sharing and electronic warfare endurance are just as critical as flight performance.
The new prototype schedule shows that the development phase of the program continues.
Since there is no definitive official statement yet for the mass production quantity and the date of entry into service, it is necessary to consider the 2027 target as a prototype flight plan.