The Kazakhstan Air Force will be receiving three Anka medium-altitude, long-endurance drones from Turkish aerospace manufacturer TUSAS Engine Industries.
Awarded by state-run Kazspecexport enterprise, the contract stipulates that the Turkish firm produce and deliver the drones by 2023. The air force will utilize them in carrying out various missions, including intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
Developed in 2010, the Anka is a modular platform featuring synthetic aperture radar and ground moving target indicator radar. It also has an upgraded airborne satellite communications antenna that provides secure and beyond-line-of-sight communications between the operator and the ground station.
The drone can carry up to 200 kilograms (440 pounds) of surveillance and signal equipment to detect, identify, and track stationary or moving ground targets.
Kazakhstan is reportedly one of the first countries to purchase the Turkish drones. In addition to the Ankas, the central Asian nation will receive two ground bases and a logistics support package.
Improving Military Arsenal
A nation of 19 million, Kazakhstan is reportedly the second-largest military power in Central Asia, following Uzbekistan, and continues upgrading its military capabilities. Last month, it completed a four-year trial of its next-generation 8×8 infantry combat vehicle.
Kazakhstan has also received Russian arms, including Mi-35M helicopters, Buk-M2E surface-to-air missile systems, BTR-80 and BTR-82A armored personnel carriers, and Orlan-10E multi-purpose drone systems.
As the country continues to boost its military, it is also strengthening diplomatic ties with other Central Asian nations. Deputy Defense Minister Ruslan Shpekbayev said that Kazakhstan has agreed to provide military assistance to Kyrgyzstan, delivering ammunition and special equipment.