One of Türkiye’s most advanced UAV projects, the Bayraktar TB3, has set a new milestone in aviation history with its latest test flight. Conducted at the AKINCI Flight Training and Test Center in Çorlu, Tekirdağ, the UAV successfully remained airborne for 32 consecutive hours at an average altitude of 20,000 feet. Covering a total distance of 5,700 kilometers, the TB3 broke its previous endurance record of 12 hours during its 12th flight test. Powered by the indigenous PD-170 engine, the UAV demonstrated superior performance, further underscoring Türkiye’s growing capabilities in aerospace technology.

The Bayraktar TB3 is distinguished by its foldable wing design, enabling operations from short-runway naval vessels. Planned for testing aboard the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship TCG Anadolu, the UAV is also equipped with beyond-line-of-sight communication capabilities, allowing it to conduct reconnaissance, surveillance, and strike missions from long distances. This feature will significantly enhance Türkiye’s deterrence power in overseas and maritime operations.

Baykar has fully financed the TB3 project with its own resources. Since launching its UAV R&D efforts in 2003, the company has relied heavily on export revenues to fund innovation. Recognized as the defense and aerospace export leader in Türkiye in 2021 and 2022, Baykar achieved $1.2 billion in exports last year alone. With its Bayraktar TB2 and Bayraktar AKINCI platforms, the company has signed agreements with 33 countries, showcasing Türkiye’s defense industry strength on the global stage.

The TB3’s record-breaking flight is not only a technical triumph but also a symbol of Türkiye’s rising dominance in unmanned aerial vehicle technology.