The Bayraktar TB3 launched the missile from a distance of over 50 kilometres, striking a 6-by-6-metre floating sea target with precision on its first attempt. During the operation, a Bayraktar TB2 UCAV carried out laser designation from the air, allowing the TB3 to successfully engage and destroy the marked target.
This trial demonstrated the ability of two UCAVs to coordinate in laser designation and engagement, a significant advancement in unmanned aerial warfare capabilities. Baykar confirmed that the TB3 will continue to undergo further testing as part of its development roadmap.
The Bayraktar TB3 previously made aviation history in November 2024 by becoming the world’s first UCAV to take off and land on a short-runway vessel, the TCG Anadolu, without the aid of landing equipment. It has since performed multiple successful shipboard flights and continues to meet critical test benchmarks.
Powered by the domestically produced PD-170 engine from TEI, the TB3 reached an altitude of 36,310 feet during a high-altitude performance test in June 2024. While the TB3 continues to break new ground, Türkiye’s highest altitude record remains with Baykar’s Bayraktar AKINCI UCAV at 45,118 feet.
As of March 2025, the Bayraktar TB3 has accumulated nearly 968 hours of flight time, including a 32-hour non-stop flight covering 5,700 kilometres. It also successfully flew with the ASELFLIR-500, a domestically developed electro-optical targeting system, highlighting its fully indigenous development.
Designed for advanced operational roles, the TB3 features foldable wings and Beyond Line-of-Sight (BLOS) communication, allowing it to perform long-range reconnaissance, surveillance, and strike missions. With these capabilities, it is set to become a force multiplier for Türkiye’s defence posture, particularly in overseas operations.
Baykar, which funds its projects independently, has earned global recognition as the world’s largest UAV producer. “We are excited to work with the BAE Systems team to see it through to success,” said Bryan Van Brunt, President of Repkon USA, reflecting the type of international collaboration that underscores Baykar’s growing influence.
With exports accounting for over 80% of its revenue and reaching $1.8 billion in both 2023 and 2024, Baykar remains a key contributor to Türkiye’s defence exports. The company has signed agreements with 36 countries and was named the top defence exporter for three consecutive years, solidifying its leadership in the global UAV market.
