ANKA III Drone Confirms its Versatility as Combat Platform with Successful Firing of LGK-82 Guided Munition.17 Mar, 2025
Defense News Aerospace
The ANKA III combat drone has reached a new milestone in its development with a successful test firing of the LGK-82 guided munition by Aselsan. This test represents progress in integrating precision-guided weaponry into Turkish drones and highlights the ongoing development of Turkey’s defense industry in the field of unmanned aerial systems. By demonstrating its capability to deploy a precision-guided munition, the ANKA III further establishes itself as a versatile combat drone capable of executing autonomous strikes with high accuracy.
During the test, ANKA III successfully hit its target using the LGK-82, a laser guidance kit designed to convert standard 500-pound Mk-82 bombs into precision-guided munitions. (Picture source: TUSAS)During the test, ANKA III successfully hit its target using the LGK-82, a laser guidance kit designed to convert standard 500-pound Mk-82 bombs into precision-guided munitions. This technology enhances targeting accuracy while minimizing collateral damage, increasing the effectiveness of airstrikes. The integration of this system also improves the drone’s operational flexibility, allowing it to adapt its payload to mission requirements. Previously, the ANKA III had already demonstrated compatibility with the TEBER-82 guidance kit and the TOLUN munition. The addition of the LGK-82 further expands its strike capabilities and confirms its compatibility with a broader range of precision-guided weapons.
Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), the ANKA III builds on experience gained from the ANKA and AKSUNGUR programs while introducing significant advancements. Its flying wing design enhances aerodynamic performance and reduces radar cross-section, improving its ability to operate in contested environments. Unlike previous models, it is powered by a turbofan engine, enabling it to reach Mach 0.7 and operate at altitudes of up to 40,000 feet. The aircraft has an endurance of 10 hours and can carry up to 1,200 kg of payload in internal weapon bays. This combination of speed, altitude, and endurance allows it to conduct a range of missions, from strategic reconnaissance to precision strikes.
The ANKA III also incorporates advanced artificial intelligence and simulation technologies, optimizing autonomous flight capabilities and mission execution. These systems enhance sensor management, autonomous decision-making, and real-time adaptability to battlefield conditions. With these enhancements, the drone can independently identify, track, and engage targets, improving the efficiency and responsiveness of military operations. The integration of the LGK-82 into the ANKA III carries several strategic, technological, and industrial implications.
From an operational perspective, this test confirms the drone’s capability to conduct autonomous and precision strikes, reducing risks for allied forces. Its ability to employ precision-guided munitions makes it suitable for targeted strikes against strategic infrastructure, armored vehicles, and fortified positions. The combination of low observability and automated flight systems enhances its survivability in contested airspace, allowing it to operate where air defense threats are present.
From a technological standpoint, the test validates the interoperability of Turkish drones with nationally developed weaponry. Turkey is pursuing strategic autonomy in defense technology, and the success of this test aligns with that goal. By demonstrating that its drones can integrate domestically produced munitions, the Turkish defense industry reduces reliance on foreign technologies while establishing its capability to develop fully autonomous combat systems. Additionally, this success highlights the standardization and compatibility across Turkish aerial platforms and their weapons, facilitating joint operations within military forces.
For the Turkish defense industry, this development also represents an opportunity in the international market. The ANKA III, with its ability to operate different guided munitions, becomes a more competitive option for potential buyers seeking a cost-effective and multi-role combat drone. With an increasing number of countries investing in armed drones, the demonstration of these capabilities could enhance export prospects for Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) and Aselsan.
On a geopolitical level, this test highlights Turkey’s growing role in the field of autonomous combat drones. The demonstration of the ANKA III’s operational capabilities in a real-world scenario signals the rapid advancement of Turkey’s defense industry and its ambitions to compete with leading global drone manufacturers. As armed drones become central to modern conflicts, the continued development of the ANKA III and its integration with precision-guided weapons reinforce Turkey’s strategic position.
With this successful test, the ANKA III solidifies its status as a next-generation combat drone, capable of adapting to diverse mission requirements while incorporating advanced technologies and an expanding arsenal. Its ongoing development reflects Turkey’s objective to strengthen its defense capabilities and position itself as a key player in the field of autonomous combat drones.
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