The T629 has more carrying capacity and extra one tonne of compared to the T129 ATAK, but less than the heavier T929 ATAK 2 that is also being developed. Unlike the Italian and Turkish partnership with the T129, the T629 is being developed by Turkey only.[1]
Development
The T629 project started on August 14, 2017. TAI began assembling the first flight model of the helicopter in 2019.[2] No technical details of the helicopter have been revealed so far, except the MTOW (max take-off weight); which is 6 tonnes. It is expected that the helicopter will carry launchers of 70 mm unguided missiles and L-UMTAS anti-tank missiles.[3] The first variant (manned) was revealed in June 2020. The second variant (unmanned) was revealed on February 25, 2021. The T629 shares common systems with TAI T625 Gökbey multi-utility helicopter. It is expected for flight tests to be conducted in 2021, and for deliveries to begin to the Turkish Armed Forces in 2022.[1][4]
Variants
Unmanned electric T-629
There are two variants of the T-629. One unmanned and electric variant, and one classic-style manned variant.[4] It is expected for the unmanned and electrical variant to be used in critical missions since it will be quieter.[4]
