Türkiye's Bayraktar TB3 sets aviation milestone with short deck launch

ANKARA

Türkiye's Bayraktar TB3 unmanned combat aerial vehicle before launch.

Türkiye's Bayraktar TB3 unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) achieved a milestone in aviation history by becoming the first drone to take off and land successfully on a short-deck ship.

The milestone was reached on Tuesday, as the TB3 operated from the short-runway carrier TCG Anadolu.

Baykar, the developer of the Bayraktar TB3, announced the achievement and highlighted the role of Turkish engineers in developing advanced technology. Haluk Bayraktar, CEO of Baykar, praised the commitment of the engineers involved in the project.

The Turkish Defense Ministry celebrated the achievement, describing it as the fulfillment of an "exciting wait and dreams."

The Bayraktar TB3, which began mass production in October, is expected to enter international markets within six months.

During its development, the TB3 completed over 700 flight hours, including a continuous flight of 32 hours in December 2023, covering a distance of 5,700 kilometers (3,541 miles). Baykar is recognized globally for its innovative unmanned aerial vehicles, such as the Bayraktar TB2 and Akinci, noted for their technological advancements and operational success in the defense sector.