The United Kingdom is preparing to develop its own unmanned aerial vehicle program, drawing inspiration from the success of Turkish-made armed drones (UAVs) on the battlefield. According to a report by The Guardian, Azerbaijan’s decisive use of Bayraktar TB2 drones during its six-week war with Armenia played a key role in sparking British interest. Turkey’s innovative and cost-effective defense technologies have since been closely studied by UK defense officials.

Produced by Baykar, the Bayraktar TB2 stands out with its 150-kilometer range, ability to remain airborne for 24 hours, and its relatively low operational cost. These capabilities have made it highly effective in conflicts such as Syria and Libya, further proving its value. UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has praised the role of Turkish drones, noting how their deployment has reshaped modern battlefield strategies and demonstrated their operational superiority.

As part of its upcoming five-year defense budget, set to be announced in early 2021, the UK is expected to invest in more affordable and efficient unmanned aerial vehicles. This initiative reflects both a willingness to adapt to emerging military technologies and an acknowledgment of the global impact Turkish UAVs have achieved.

Professor Michael Clarke from the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) also highlighted that Azerbaijan’s effective use of drones was a decisive factor in its military success. Turkey’s technological advancements in UAV systems are not only altering regional power balances but also influencing the defense strategies of allied nations, including the UK. The launch of Britain’s new drone program is seen as a direct outcome of this influence, marking an important milestone in international defense dynamics.