Athens, Greece - A Turkish Aksungur drone, first spotted within the Athens Flight Information Region (FIR) in July, has become a persistent presence in the southeastern Aegean Sea, raising concerns among Greek officials.
The drone, known for its extended flight capabilities and ability to carry out intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, initially appeared during a tense standoff between Greece and Turkey near the island of Kasos.
After a brief hiatus, the Aksungur reappeared on August 13th, coinciding with devastating wildfires that stretched the Hellenic Air Force's resources thin. For at least three days, the drone operated within the Greek FIR without filing a flight plan, a violation of international air traffic regulations set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Greek military leadership is particularly concerned about the Aksungur's advanced capabilities compared to the smaller Bayraktar drones typically deployed by Turkey. With the ability to carry a 750 kg payload, including weapons, the drone represents a potential threat and underscores Turkey's growing drone program.
In response to the Turkish drone activity, the Hellenic Army General Staff anticipates the arrival of its first French-built Patroller drones in late 2024. These advanced systems will significantly enhance Greece's surveillance capabilities, providing high-definition imagery, thermal imaging, and targeting data.
The Greek military plans to fully integrate the French made Patroller drones by 2025 and has expressed interest in acquiring unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) capabilities for the ground forces. Negotiations with Israel for the armed version of the Heron drone are also reportedly underway.
The continued presence of the Turkish Aksungur drone in the Aegean Sea highlights the escalating tensions between Greece and Turkey and emphasizes the growing importance of unmanned aerial systems in the region.
Source AP
