The recent test of Bayraktar TB3 marks a new era in Turkey’s maritime strike capability and underlines its growing technological independence in naval aviation. Taking off from Muğla’s Dalaman airfield, Bayraktar TB3 successfully launched Roketsan’s IHA-122 Supersonic Missile, hitting a sea-based target over 50 kilometers away with pinpoint accuracy. More than a simple munitions integration test, this event demonstrated the operational maturity of unmanned platforms capable of supersonic missile launches from naval environments, a capability previously limited to advanced air forces and navies.

In this coordinated test, Bayraktar TB2 played a key role by performing laser target designation, allowing TB3 to engage the target with precision. Defense experts emphasized that the joint operation between TB2 and TB3 showcases Turkey’s growing capability in networked unmanned operations. This interoperability allows different air assets to share real-time data, divide mission responsibilities, and conduct distributed strike missions — enhancing operational security and flexibility in contested environments.

The Bayraktar TB3, already known for being the first UAV capable of taking off and landing from short-deck ships like the TCG Anadolu, has proven itself as a powerful maritime strike platform. Its indigenous PD-170 engine, foldable wings, AESA radar integration, and ASELFLIR-500 electro-optical targeting system make it ideally suited for naval missions. With beyond line-of-sight (SATCOM) control capability, TB3 can conduct long-range surveillance and strike missions across vast maritime zones, including the Blue Homeland (Mavi Vatan) doctrine area.

Defense analyst Kadir Doğan noted that launching a supersonic missile from a ship-based UAV represents a critical milestone for the Turkish Navy. He stated, “With this achievement, Turkey gains the ability to engage targets at long ranges from sea-based platforms with greater safety and precision. This is a major leap for future naval operations.” Experts also predict that as Turkey continues to diversify its indigenous munitions, the TB3 will be able to employ a variety of missile systems against naval, coastal, and air defense targets — expanding the nation’s strike options and strengthening its deterrence posture.