Türkiye’s next-generation unmanned combat aircraft, ANKA III, paid tribute to the heroes of the Çanakkale Victory with a historic formation flight. Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), the delta-wing ANKA III took to the skies with two prototypes, performing a synchronized flight to commemorate the 110th anniversary of the Çanakkale Victory and Martyrs’ Memorial Day (18 March) — a day symbolizing Türkiye’s struggle for independence and resilience.

The commemorative mission was conducted from Mürted Air Base Command, where both ANKA III prototypes climbed to 8,000 feet and flew for 35 minutes. Beyond its symbolic importance, the flight served as a technological milestone, testing multi-aircraft control from a single ground station — a foundational step toward swarm flight capability. This demonstrated that ANKA III is not merely an advanced UAV but part of a broader vision for network-centric and cooperative unmanned combat operations.

TUSAŞ General Manager Mehmet Demiroğlu shared his reflections on social media:

“This special salute from the sky is one of the strongest demonstrations of our determination to protect the legacy of our ancestors. We once again honor with respect and gratitude all heroes who engraved the words ‘Çanakkale is Impenetrable’ into history.”

Designed with a low radar signature, high-speed performance, and internal payload bays, ANKA III represents a significant leap in Türkiye’s aerospace capabilities. It can carry a wide range of indigenous munitions and is being tested for future integration with manned-unmanned teaming operations alongside other air assets such as the KIZILELMA and HÜRJET.

The flight not only honored a defining moment in Turkish history but also showcased the nation’s technological confidence and aerospace self-sufficiency. As testing progresses, ANKA III continues to embody Türkiye’s ambition to lead in stealth, swarm, and next-generation unmanned air systems — bridging the legacy of Çanakkale with the vision of future air dominance.