ANKARA (Agencies): In a groundbreaking development, Turkey’s ANKA-3 Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) has demonstrated the potential to carry Pakistan’s nuclear-tipped Raad cruise missile. This advancement could revolutionize Pakistan’s military strategy, providing the ability to launch nuclear weapons from drones. The integration of the Raad missile with the ANKA-3 would significantly enhance Pakistan’s deterrent capabilities, marking a new era in unmanned aerial warfare.
The Raad cruise missile, also known as Hatf-VIII, is a significant component of Pakistan’s strategic arsenal.
Here are some key details:
- Type: Air-launched cruise missile (ALCM)
- Developers: National Engineering & Scientific Commission (NESCOM) and Air Weapons Complex (AWC)
- Service Entry: 2012
- Range: Approximately 350 km (220 miles) for Raad-I and up to 600 km (370 miles) for Raad-II
- Warhead: Capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads, with a payload capacity of around 450 kg (990 lbs)
- Guidance System: Inertial navigation with terminal guidance, providing high accuracy with a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of about 3 meters (9.8 feet)
- Speed: Subsonic, with a maximum speed of around 0.8 Mach (980 km/h or 610 mph)
- Features: Designed for low-altitude, terrain-following flight to evade detection and engagement by modern air defense systems
The Raad missile enhances Pakistan’s aerial nuclear deterrence by providing a flexible and precise delivery system for its strategic payloads.
Turkey’s ANKA-3 Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) has recently been in the spotlight for its advanced capabilities and potential strategic implications. The ANKA-3, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), is a cutting-edge drone designed for various mission types, including reconnaissance and strike operations. It boasts a wingspan of approximately 17.5 meters and a length of about 8 meters, with a maximum takeoff weight of 6.5 tonnes and a payload capacity of 750 kg.