Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) is in discussions with the nation's defence procurement body over a proposed launch order for its Anka unmanned air vehicle, first flown in late 2010.
"The tests are going well, and Anka is getting ready for production," says undersecretary of defence industries Murad Bayar. "We have started negotiations with the air force to give a 10-UAV order," he adds, with deliveries to be made within two years of a contract signature.
Operational tests involving the indigenous design are due to commence by June, with the type to perform joint missions with Israel Aerospace Industries Heron air vehicles flown from Batman air base.
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With a maximum take-off weight of 1,500kg (3,300lb) including a 250kg payload, the Anka can fly at an altitude of 30,000ft (9,150m) and has an endurance of 24h.
Meanwhile, TAI is continuing development activities with its Grumman S-2T Tracker testbed to be flown within the next few months carrying an Aselsan-developed synthetic aperture radar payload. This will provide an all-weather surveillance capability.
Turkish Engine Industries is also working to increase the power output of the Anka's Thielert Centurion 2.0 engine, with flight tests to occur using a Cessna 337. TAI is also working on a future turboprop version of the UAV.
Source: Flight International
