Baykar and Italian defense company Leonardo's joint venture LBA Systems introduced the Bayraktar TB3 platform under a new identity at Farnborough International Airshow. Named Astore Levante, the system integrates the advanced unmanned aerial vehicle capabilities of Bayraktar TB3 with Leonardo's expertise in sensors, electronic systems, and integration. Designed to operate from land bases, aircraft carriers, and LHD (amphibious assault ship) platforms, the system creates a bridge between air and maritime operations.

Baykar has established itself as Turkey's leading unmanned aerial vehicle manufacturer, reaching a significant position in the global defense market with platforms such as Bayraktar TB2 and Bayraktar TB3. Since its founding in 2010, the company has developed expertise in unmanned system design, production, and integration, achieving product exports to more than 30 countries. Baykar's strategy of openness to international partnerships reflects its aim to bring technological capacity to global standards and establish a strong position in the European market.

Bayraktar TB3 belongs to the medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) class of unmanned aerial vehicles. The platform features up to 27 hours of flight duration, an operational ceiling of 8,000 meters, and a range of 2,000 kilometers. Integrated with sensors, radar, and electronic warfare systems developed within Leonardo's Astore family, Astore Levante has been enhanced for mission systems, C4I (command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence) compatibility, and NATO standard compliance. This integration enables the platform to be deployed more effectively in multi-mission operations.

From a Turkish defense industry perspective, this partnership strengthens Baykar's positioning in the international arena. The collaboration with Leonardo, one of Europe's leading defense companies, paves the way for Bayraktar TB3 adoption by NATO countries and allies. Simultaneously, Baykar's localization and R&D capacity are further enhanced through international partnerships. The establishment of LBA Systems in Italy creates a structure aligned with the European Union and NATO framework.

In the global unmanned aerial vehicle market, Turkish platforms such as Bayraktar TB2 and Bayraktar TB3 compete with systems like MQ-9 Reaper (United States) and Heron TP (Israel). Astore Levante represents part of Europe's efforts to develop its own unmanned systems. Leonardo's C4I and integration experience makes Bayraktar TB3 more compatible with European operational environments. This approach reflects Europe's defense industry inclination toward domestically and partner-developed systems.