Turkey’s defense industry has marked another milestone with the modernization of the Akıncı Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV). Developed by Baykar, Akıncı has been equipped with powerful new engines through cooperation with Ukraine’s Motor Sich company. Previously flying with 450-horsepower engines, Akıncı now reaches 2100 horsepower thanks to the MS500 Turboprop Engine Technical Specification Agreement, dramatically boosting its operational performance. This advancement places Akıncı among the world’s top UCAVs in terms of payload capacity.

The upgraded Akıncı is not only capable of carrying larger payloads but also offers enhanced flexibility in mission profiles. From long-range reconnaissance and precision strike missions to electronic warfare operations, the UCAV can adapt to diverse battlefield needs. Its ability to strike multiple types of targets within the same mission highlights its role as a versatile and highly effective combat platform for the Turkish Armed Forces.

Defense Industry Researcher Kadir Doğan emphasizes that Akıncı’s flexible engine integration allows it to adapt swiftly to emerging operational challenges, creating a strong deterrent effect against adversaries. The new engines also extend endurance in long-duration missions, strengthening Turkey’s defense strategies and operational resilience.

With this enhanced infrastructure, Akıncı not only serves Turkey’s national security needs but also carries significant export potential. Fully compatible with domestically developed munitions and advanced sensor systems, the UCAV’s upgraded engine power enables it to operate across a much broader range of missions. This technological leap is considered a key step in solidifying Turkey’s leadership in unmanned aerial vehicle technology on the global stage.