The recent test of the Bayraktar Akıncı with the new TOLUN-IIR precision munition is not an isolated moment, but fits a broader development within the Turkish defence industry. Where a few years ago Turkey stood out mainly with relatively light drones, this demonstration shows how the country is now focusing on unmanned systems that operate at higher altitude and are suitable for heavier, better-protected targets. Japan has also shown interest in Baykar’s drones, although it will probably be more of a cooperation. But let us look at what this drone can do.
The released footage shows an Akıncı drone detecting a target from considerable altitude and deploying several TOLUN-IIR munitions. The weapons track their target autonomously and penetrate a thick concrete structure. It is a clear indication of what this combination is intended for: not just observation or light attacks, but precision strikes against fortified infrastructure.
A different class from the TB2
The test also marks the difference between the Akıncı and its predecessor, the Bayraktar TB2. That drone became known worldwide for its role in conflicts such as Nagorno-Karabakh and later Ukraine. Especially in the early phase of the war, the TB2 showed how vulnerable tanks and logistics columns are without good air defence. At the same time, its limits also became clear: as soon as the airspace was better covered, the risks for low-flying drones increased quickly.
The Akıncı was designed with that experience in mind. It flies higher, has a longer range and can carry considerably heavier sensors and weapons. This shifts its role from tactical support to strategic use. Instead of following the battlefield up close, it operates at an altitude where only long-range missiles still pose a real threat.
What the manufacturers stress
According to Baykar, the developer of the Akıncı, this test is not only about the drone itself, but above all about integrating advanced munitions. The company stresses that an unmanned platform only gains real value when sensors, communications and weapons function as one system. According to Baykar, the successful use of the TOLUN-IIR fits exactly into that philosophy.
The munition was developed by ASELSAN, one of Turkey’s largest defence companies. The company says the focus was on accuracy and flexibility. Infrared guidance makes it possible to work reliably even with complex targets or changing conditions. The fact that the munition can penetrate thick concrete is seen as a necessary property for modern conflicts, in which command posts and critical infrastructure are increasingly well protected.
Strategic significance
The test underlines a broader trend: drones are seen less and less as temporary or supplementary means, and more and more as full alternatives to manned aircraft. That has not only military but also economic consequences. Deploying a drone at high altitude can force an opponent to use expensive air defence assets, shifting the cost balance.
Industrial independence also plays an important role. Both the drone and the munition were developed and produced in Turkey. In a geopolitical climate in which arms exports regularly come under pressure, that gives Ankara more freedom in the use and further development of its systems. Turkey is making more and more itself, for example drone boats and wingman drones that can work together with the F-16 fighter jet.
Image: Baykar
Foreign interest, including from Japan
This development is not going unnoticed internationally. Recently there has been growing foreign interest in Turkish unmanned systems, not only from traditional customers in the Middle East and Africa, but also from Asia. Japan in particular is mentioned as a possible cooperation partner.
Japan has long been investigating how to expand its reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities, especially with a view to maritime security in the region. Turkish drones are seen as interesting platforms, both for joint exercises and for technological cooperation. Talks have been held on knowledge exchange and possible joint projects, although there are no concrete contracts yet.
More than a test moment
The Akıncı test with TOLUN-IIR shows that Turkey no longer limits itself to building effective but relatively simple drones. The country is moving towards an integrated approach in which unmanned systems take a permanent place in strategic planning.
