Continuing its test flights, Turkey's Bayraktar Akinci combat drone broke a new record in Turkey on Friday by flying at an altitude of 40,100 feet.
Bayraktar AKINCI-B UCAV (Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle) is developed by Baykar Technologies within the scope of the AKINCI project carried out under the leadership of the Turkish Presidency of Defense Industries. Bayraktar AKINCI-B has a total of 1500 HP with 2 x 750 HP engines. In one of its flight tests AKINCI-B managed to set a new national aviation record.
The first version of the Bayraktar AKINCI UCAV, which entered service with a ceremony attended by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on August 29, 2021, had also set a national aviation record by climbing to an altitude of 38,039 feet in a flight test carried out on July 8, 2021.
Bayraktar AKINCI UCAVs are currently actively used by Turkish Armed Forces. So far, 6 Bayraktar AKINCI UCAVs have entered service with the Turkish Armed Forces.
Export contract signed with two countries
Export contracts have been signed with 2 countries for the Akinci. Within the scope of the contracts, the UCAVs and ground systems are expected to be delivered periodically beginning in 2023.
Making its first national UAV export in 2012, Baykar exported 664 million dollars worth of UAV systems in 2021, generating more than 80% of its revenues from exports. It is reported that negotiations are ongoing with many countries that are interested in the Bayraktar AKINCI UCAV.
Bayraktar Akıncı-C is on the way
The newest announced version of Bayraktar AKINCI is reported to have a total engine power of 1900 HP with 2 x 950 HP engines. Bayraktar AKINCI-C is currently in development and is expected to make its maiden flight soon.
