Burkina Faso unveiled its new long-range combat drone, Akinci, on April 8, 2024, marking a significant development in its efforts to enhance defense capabilities against regional terrorist and insurgent groups. The two Akinci drones, presented to the military during a ceremony presided over by the head of the junta, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, are part of a larger set of Turkish armaments acquired by Burkina Faso, which also includes five Bayraktar TB2 drones and a variety of guided and unguided munitions.
The introduction of Akinci drones underscores Burkina Faso’s increasing reliance on Turkish military products, indicating a shift towards new defense suppliers and partners. This trend suggests a growing prominence of Africa as a potentially lucrative market for Turkish defense companies, with exports of defense and aerospace products to the continent steadily rising.
Manufactured by the Turkish defense company Baykar, the Bayraktar Akinci, or “Raider” in Turkish, is a high-altitude, long-endurance unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV). With a maximum takeoff weight exceeding 5.5 tons and a payload of over 1,350 kg, the Akinci is equipped with powerful turboprop engines and an extensive array of electronic and communication systems.
The Bayraktar TB2 is a tactical combat drone manufactured by Baykar Defense. With a wingspan of 12 meters and a payload of 150 kg, it is equipped with cameras and sensors for surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting operations. With a flight endurance of over 24 hours and the capability to carry air-to-ground missiles, the TB2 is effective for border surveillance, counterterrorism efforts, and domestic security operations.
Akinci drones have been observed equipped with various munitions, including MAM-L and MAM-T missiles, as well as GPS and laser-guided bombs. This diverse arsenal indicates Burkina Faso’s intent to arm itself against a range of potential threats, including Islamist terrorist groups operating in the region.