Bayraktar Akinci successfully completed its first test flight equipped with the Murad AESA active phased array radar (AFAR) developed by ASELSAN.

Baykar reported on this on its social media platforms.

During the test, the radar, integrated into the Akinci UAV system, effectively transmitted data to the ground control station.

According to Ulusavunma media outlet, the Akıncı-A version of the UAV was used for the flight tests. This version features the AI-450T turboprop engine developed by the Ukrainian company Ivchenko-Progress.

The tests are set to continue, with a planned test launch of the Turkish medium-range Gökdoğan air-to-air missile with the Akinci UAV.

Akinci

The Akinci prototype was first demonstrated in 2018 and is capable of flying at altitudes of up to 12,200 meters. It can carry up to 900 kg of weapons on external pylons and 450 kg in internal compartments.

The UAV made its first flight in December 2019, and after completing various test programs, the first serial model flew in May 2021.

With a wingspan of 20 meters and a maximum take-off weight of 4,500 kg, the Akinci can remain airborne for up to 24 hours. Its weaponry includes guided missiles, bombs, and advanced electronic systems for reconnaissance and combat.

In 2024, Baykar tested a variety of advanced weapons for the Akinci, including small-sized Tolun bombs, UAV-230 aeroballistic missiles with TV and laser homing heads, CAKIR cruise missiles, and high-precision aerial bombs.

The integration of the ASELSAN Murad 100-A AESA radar enhances the Akinci’s ability to detect both ground and air targets, particularly improving its capabilities with air-to-air missiles like the Gökdoğan.

Gökdoğan is a Turkish solid-propellant air-to-air missile with a range of 65+ km and equipped with an active radar homing head.

On February 12, 2025, Baykar Technologies announced a partnership with Indonesian PT Republikorp to establish a joint venture for UAV production. The venture will manufacture and maintain 60 Bayraktar TB3 medium-altitude, carrier-based reconnaissance and strike drones and 9 Akinci high-altitude drones.