Ankara: Trkiye's first locally produced aviation engine, the TEI-PD170, is set to power domestic unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), marking a significant step towards reducing foreign dependence on engines. Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries' (TAI) subsidiary, TAI Engine Industries (TEI), the engine is now available for manufacturers. According to Anadolu Agency, the TEI-PD170's development is a milestone in the 2012 UAV Engine Development project by Trkiye's Defense Industry Agency. This project aimed to create the country's first turbodiesel aviation engine for medium-altitude long-endurance UAVs. The engine's first ignition occurred in January 2017, followed by various ground tests, leading to the delivery of the first manufactured model to TAI in November 2017. The TEI-PD170 completed its maiden flight on the TAI Anka platform in December 2018, despite harsh weather conditions, and later flew on the TAI Aksungur in October 2021. Turkish defense firm Baykar also selected the engine for its T B3 platform, beginning flights in 2023. The TEI-PD170 has achieved 45 hours of operation on the TAI Aksungur, reaching an altitude of 36,310 feet. Meanwhile, Baykar's TB3 platform became the first UCAV to take off and land from a short runway ship, accumulating 823 flight hours with the engine. The engine's runtime aboard domestic UCAVs has reached 2,000 hours. The engine features a two-stage turbocharging system, offering a high power-to-weight ratio and superior high-altitude capability compared to foreign competitors. It includes a backup control system and custom control software adhering to civil aviation standards. The TEI-PD170 produces 170 horsepower and can maintain power at altitudes up to 45,000 feet. Trkiye's first indigenous aviation engine now powers three different platforms and has attracted international interest, with its first export completed in early 2024 and ongoing negotiations with various countries.