Bayraktar TB3, Turkey's Most Advanced Armed Drone, Marks First Flight

Baykar, a Turkish firm, announced the maiden flight of its Bayraktar TB3 Armed Unmanned Aerial Vehicle.

This is a significant step towards integrating the TB3 with the TCG ANADOLU naval platform, designed for operations on short-runway naval installations. The drone, following recent fast taxi tests and touch-and-go maneuvers, remained airborne for about 2 hours during its first flight. Testing will continue in Keşan before transitioning to a land-based platform simulating the TCG ANADOLU's flight deck. The historic landing and takeoff on the TCG ANADOLU are expected in 2024.

Baykar Chairman Selçuk Bayraktar noted the global competition surrounding the TB3 project, with U.S. and Israeli companies entering the field. The TB3 features foldable wings, SATCOM payload, a 1450-kilogram takeoff weight, 24-hour endurance, six weapon stations, and high-altitude capabilities.

The TB3 is a naval evolution of the TB2 drone, purpose-built for short-runway aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships, effectively creating the world's first drone carrier. Partnering with the Kızılelma drone, the TB3 will play key roles in reconnaissance, enemy engagement, and air defense.

It's worth noting that the Kızılelma jet-powered drone began active flight testing on December 3, 2022. The TB3, with a 14-meter wingspan, 8.35-meter length, 1,450-kilogram maximum takeoff weight, and a 280-kilogram payload capacity, offers significantly enhanced capabilities compared to the TB2. The TB3 is powered by a 172-horsepower PD170 engine from Turkey's TEI, replacing the 100-horsepower Rotax 912.