One of Türkiye’s flagship defense projects, the Bayraktar TB3 UCAV, has successfully completed its 15th test flight, marking a critical milestone for its future deployment aboard the TCG ANADOLU. Developed by Baykar with a fully indigenous design, the TB3 demonstrated its capabilities with “Touch and Go” maneuvers, where the aircraft briefly touches down on the runway before taking off again. This highlights its potential to operate effectively in emergency scenarios from short-deck ships.

To date, the Bayraktar TB3 has conducted 15 flights, amassing 112 flight hours. The drone was first unveiled during Türkiye’s Centennial celebrations at TEKNOFEST Istanbul and was later exhibited at TEKNOFEST events in Ankara and Izmir. Its foldable wing design makes it the world’s first armed UAV capable of takeoff and landing from short-deck vessels like the TCG ANADOLU, setting it apart globally.

Baykar Chairman Selçuk Bayraktar announced that test flights aboard the TCG ANADOLU are scheduled to begin in 2024. Equipped with beyond-line-of-sight communication, the TB3 will be capable of long-range operations including reconnaissance, surveillance, intelligence gathering, and precision strikes using smart munitions.

This achievement not only strengthens Türkiye’s operational capabilities but also represents a strategic innovation in integrating naval and air assets. The Bayraktar TB3’s future deployment aboard TCG ANADOLU is expected to further enhance Türkiye’s deterrence power and expand its influence in regional security.