Bayraktar TB3: A Historic Milestone in Drone Technology
**The Bayraktar TB3 has achieved a remarkable milestone by successfully striking its target with absolute precision during its inaugural firing test utilizing MAM-T ammunition.** This drone has made history as the first in the world to take off and land from a short runway on a ship, showcasing significant advancements in drone technology. On January 17, the Bayraktar TB3 UAV lifted off from the Baykar Flight Training and Test Center in Keşan, Edirne, equipped with two MAM-T munitions developed by Roketsan.
While in flight, the Bayraktar TB3 utilized the ASELFLIR-500 system—an Electro-Optical Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Targeting System developed by Aselsan—to accurately target its designated location. Impressively, the drone hit its target on the first attempt. As part of its ongoing development, the armored Bayraktar TB3 UAV will continue to undergo payload and ammunition integration tests in accordance with the established testing schedule.
Successful Flight Tests
The Bayraktar TB3 UAV, which has been developed entirely within Turkey by Baykar, made headlines on November 19 when it took off from the TCG Anadolu’s short ramp, which has a 12-degree incline. This flight lasted 46 minutes, marking a historic achievement as it landed back on the same short runway without the assistance of any landing support equipment, establishing a new benchmark in the field.
Following its initial success, the Bayraktar TB3 continued to impress during subsequent tests. It accomplished two additional takeoffs and landings from the TCG Anadolu, all without landing support equipment, during a second flight test held off the coast of Çanakkale. Throughout these tests, the UAV maintained an impressive average altitude of 20,000 feet, proving its capabilities.
Achieving New Heights
On June 25, 2024, the Bayraktar TB3 UAV reached a new record during the High Altitude System Performance Test at the Baykar Flight Training and Test Center in Keşan. The drone achieved an impressive altitude of 36,310 feet, showcasing the effectiveness of its domestically developed PD-170 engine by TEI.
This achievement is particularly significant as the Bayraktar TB3 continues to push the boundaries of national aviation. Previously, the Bayraktar AKINCI TİHA set the altitude record for Turkey’s national aviation history at 45,118 feet. Alongside these developments, enhancements are also being integrated into the Bayraktar TB2 UAV, further advancing Turkey’s capabilities in unmanned aerial vehicle technology.
