Türkiye’s defense industry has marked another milestone with the Bayraktar TB3 UAV, one of its most advanced indigenous projects. During its 11th flight test, the TB3 successfully completed the System Performance Test, remaining in the air for 6 continuous hours. Baykar Chairman and Chief Technology Officer Selçuk Bayraktar highlighted the achievement on social media, noting the program is progressing as planned.

Designed specifically for Türkiye’s flagship amphibious assault ship TCG Anadolu, the Bayraktar TB3 features a foldable wing structure, making it the world’s first UAV capable of taking off and landing from short-deck naval platforms. This innovation will significantly enhance Türkiye’s maritime operational capabilities. Bayraktar confirmed that sea trials aboard TCG Anadolu are expected to begin in 2024.

The TB3 is also equipped with beyond-line-of-sight satellite communication (satcom) capability, enabling it to be controlled from thousands of kilometers away. With this feature, the UAV will be able to conduct long-range reconnaissance, surveillance, intelligence, and strike missions, strengthening Türkiye’s deterrence power and global defense presence.

By integrating advanced air and naval capabilities, the Bayraktar TB3 is set to play a critical role in joint operations across land, sea, and air domains, further demonstrating Türkiye’s growing prominence in the global defense sector.