Malaysia, one of Turkey’s strategic partners in the defence industry, is preparing to receive Anka-S unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) produced by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ). The production of three Anka-S units for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) has been completed, and pilot and operator training has been successfully concluded.
The development was announced at the LIMA 2025 International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition held on Langkawi Island. TUSAŞ and its local partner G7 Aerospace shared details of their collaboration on the Anka project through Naval News.
Anka-S UAVs to Conduct Surveillance in the South China Sea
The Anka-S UAVs to be delivered to Malaysia have been specially modified for maritime surveillance missions. These unarmed UAVs are equipped with:
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Advanced maritime surveillance sensors,
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Modified wing structures,
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Special ground support equipment.
The Anka systems will be actively deployed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions in the South China Sea and waters near the Philippine border.
Labuan Air Base Prepared for Deployment
The hangar at Labuan Air Base, where the UAVs will be stationed, was officially handed over to TUSAŞ by G7 Aerospace after a 12-month modernisation process. All ground support systems have also been activated. The goal is to complete deliveries by the end of 2025.
Second Anka Squadron Under Consideration
Following high satisfaction with the Anka systems, RMAF officials are considering the establishment of a second squadron, which is expected to be stationed in the state of Sabah. This move is viewed as part of Malaysia’s broader strategy to strengthen its defence capacity in East Asia.
Looking Ahead to KAAN: Strategic Partnership Expands
Representatives from G7 Aerospace stated that the Anka collaboration is only the beginning, and the strategic partnership established with TUSAŞ is expected to expand to include advanced defence products such as the fifth-generation fighter jet KAAN in the future.
Malaysia first officially announced its intention to procure Anka UAVs and P-72M maritime patrol aircraft during the 2023 LIMA exhibition. The current phase is considered a concrete indicator of the rapidly advancing defence cooperation between the two nations.
Info Note:
The Anka-S is a medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) class UAV developed by TUSAŞ. It features over 24 hours of endurance, satellite-controlled operational capability, and a modular design suitable for a variety of ISR missions.
