Jet-powered kamikaze UAV AYAZ, developed by TAI, was displayed for the first time within the scope of FIRE FREE 2026.
AYAZ Kamikaze UAV, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), was displayed for the first time at the defense industry exhibition organized within the scope of the FIRE FREE 2026 activity of the Turkish Armed Forces. The images shared by SavunmaSanayiST revealed the physical structure and technical features of the jet-powered platform, about which limited information was previously available.
AYAZ, one of the smallest members of TAI's kamikaze UAV family, is being developed with low radar visibility and a cost-effective production approach. The fact that the platform has reached a range of 300 kilometers shows that the previously shared range information of approximately 200 kilometers has been updated.
Technical features of AYAZ
AYAZ's shared technical data reveals that the platform is designed with a light and compact structure.
Feature Declared value UAV type Jet engine kamikaze UAV Maximum range 300 km Maximum speed 350 km/h Service altitude 30,000 feet Maximum takeoff weight 45 kg Payload capacity 6.5 kg Wingspan 1.9 meters Body length 1.6 meters Flight duration More than 100 minutes Imaging system Infrared camera and 3-axis gimbal Flight capability Automatic target detection and autonomous flight
These values show that AYAZ is designed for long-range missions despite its small size. In particular, the maximum take-off weight of 45 kilograms and the range of 300 kilometers highlight the platform's design approach that combines the lightweight body and jet propulsion.
Can be thrown using different methods
It was announced that the tests with different launch methods during the development process of AYAZ have been completed. According to the information previously given by TAI General Manager Mehmet Demiroğlu, the platform; It successfully passed launch tests from aircraft, catapult, ramp and rocket-assisted take-off system (RATO).
This diversity allows AYAZ to be adapted to different platforms and mission concepts without being tied to a single launch infrastructure. The UAV also has parachute landing capability.
Autonomous flight and infrared camera
AYAZ is being developed with automatic target detection and fully autonomous flight capability. The infrared camera and three-axis gimbal on the platform support imaging and target tracking functions.
It is stated that the system can be directed to air and ground targets. Its design focusing on low radar cross-section area is also among the prominent features of AYAZ.
With its jet-powered structure, compact dimensions and different launch options, AYAZ focuses directly on the kamikaze UAV mission, unlike platforms such as ŞİMŞEK and SUPER ŞİMŞEK previously developed by TAI.
Mass production of AYAZ started
TAI General Manager Mehmet Demiroğlu, in his statement at the ADEX 2026 fair held in Azerbaijan on October 2, announced that the testing process of AYAZ was completed and mass production was started. Demiroğlu also stated that, unlike the low-volume production approach in the aviation sector, a model suitable for high volumes, similar to the automotive industry, is targeted.
The first viewing of AYAZ was a new development that showed that the platform was moving forward into the production process, rather than being a project handled only in the development phase.
