BAE Systems and Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on developing new unmanned aerial systems (UAS), expanding bilateral defense cooperation between the United Kingdom and Turkey. The agreement establishes a strategic partnership focused on identifying joint research and production projects, particularly for scalable and cost-effective drone systems. Engineers from both firms will combine BAE’s combat-air and autonomy expertise with TAI’s design and manufacturing strengths to accelerate new UAS development. BAE’s legacy in autonomous flight, demonstrated through programs such as Mantis, Taranis, and the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), forms the foundation for this partnership. The company is currently developing an AI-enabled loyal wingman platform designed to operate alongside manned fighters like the UK’s future Tempest aircraft. TAI’s contribution draws on its proven Anka and Aksungur surveillance UAS, and its stealthy Anka III combat drone, optimized for electronic warfare and long-endurance missions. The company’s broader portfolio—including the Kaan fifth-generation fighter and Hurjet light attack jet—reflects Turkey’s ambition to advance indigenous airpower. Through this collaboration, both sides aim to explore integration of AI, autonomy, and advanced sensors into future UAS designs. The partnership is also expected to promote export-oriented innovation, enhance industrial cooperation, and strengthen ties within NATO’s defense ecosystem.
