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Baykar Bayraktar family

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Adapted from the English Wikipedia article Baykar Bayraktar family, available under CC BY-SA 4.0Updated 29 November 202562 sources
Baykar
IndustryAerospace, Defense
Founded2004
Headquarters
Turkey
,
Turkey
ProductsUnmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), Unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs)


Template:Infobox aircraft

The Bayraktar UAV or Bayraktar UCAV refers to a series of unmanned aerial vehicles engineered and produced by the Turkish firm Baykar. These drones have been under development for the Turkish Armed Forces starting from 2004 and continue to be enhanced today. Certain variants specialize in surveillance and reconnaissance roles, while others are equipped for tactical strike operations on ground targets. Additionally, Baykar is advancing drone technologies aimed at neutralizing hostile aerial threats. The term bayraktar translates to flag-bearer in the Turkish language.

Bayraktar Mini UAV

Bayraktar Mini UAV
Main article: Baykar Bayraktar Mini UAV

The Bayraktar Mini UAV represents a compact unmanned aerial system and marks the inaugural UAV developed by the Turkish company Baykar. Initial design efforts began in 2004 with the objective of creating a short-range platform capable of conducting reconnaissance and surveillance missions both day and night. By 2005, the prototype known as Bayraktar Mini A was completed, and following successful demonstrations of autonomous flight, Baykar secured a contract from the Turkish Armed Forces to commence mass production. The initial delivery included 19 units that were primarily deployed in southeastern Turkey to support counterterrorism initiatives.

Following extensive flight testing accumulating hundreds of hours, significant upgrades were implemented leading to the release of the Bayraktar Mini B variant. This improved model entered operational service in December 2007, initially serving within the Turkish Armed Forces. Due to its operational effectiveness, export sales were made to the Qatar Armed Forces in 2012. Development continues with newer iterations such as the Bayraktar MINI D, which offers double the communication range and can operate at altitudes three times higher than earlier versions.

Bayraktar TB1

The Bayraktar TB1, also referred to as Bayraktar Çaldıran, represents the initial prototype unmanned aerial vehicle developed under Turkey's Tactical UAV initiative led by the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries (Savunma Sanayii Müsteşarlığı or SSM, currently known as the Presidency of Defense Industries). This program commenced in 2007. The SSM invited two firms to participate in a prototype demonstration phase for the Tactical UAS Program. By 2009, Kale-Baykar—a collaboration between Kale Group and Baykar Technologies—presented Block A, designated Bayraktar Çaldıran,[1] featuring a dual redundant avionics setup and fully autonomous takeoff and landing functions. This model was ultimately chosen as the program's winner.[2][3][4] Although contracts were signed with the Presidency of Defense Industries for Bayraktar TB1 units, these remained at the prototype stage and were not delivered; instead, development continued with Bayraktar Block 2 models. Production began with the Bayraktar TB2 series.[5]

Bayraktar TB2

Bayraktar TB2
Main article: Baykar Bayraktar TB2

The Bayraktar TB2 is the mass-produced successor to Baykar's initial tactical UAV, the Bayraktar TB1.

Following lessons learned from its first tactical UAV, Baykar initiated development of an advanced combat tactical aerial system at the request of the Presidency of Defense Industries. The original model, Bayraktar Çaldıran (TB1), first flew in 2011.[6] The maiden flight of the Bayraktar TB2 took place in August 2014. On 18 December 2015, a video was released showcasing missile testing conducted jointly with ROKETSAN, demonstrating Roketsan's MAM (Smart Micro Munition)s and TUBITAK-SAGE BOZOK laser-guided bombs for the first time.[7][8][9][10][11]

While the Turkish Armed Forces classify Bayraktar as a "Tactical UAV Class" to differentiate it from the TAI Anka UAV, global classification standards would categorize it as a medium-altitude long-endurance UAV.[12][13]

Bayraktar Akıncı

Bayraktar Akıncı displayed at Teknofest 2019

Main article: Baykar Bayraktar Akıncı

Bayraktar Akıncı represents Baykar's inaugural unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) within the High-altitude Long Endurance (HALE) category.

This UAV features a maximum takeoff weight exceeding 5.5 tons, with its payload capacity surpassing 1350 kg. It is powered by two turboprop engines, each offering either 450 or 750 horsepower. The Akıncı is outfitted with advanced electronic support and countermeasure technologies, dual satellite communication systems, air-to-air radar, collision avoidance radar, and an indigenous high-tech synthetic aperture radar.

Bayraktar TB3

Main article: Baykar Bayraktar TB3

The Bayraktar TB3 is an adaptation of the TB2 model designed to operate from naval vessels. In February 2021, Ismail Demir, chairman of the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB), revealed that Baykar is developing a new UAV variant intended for deployment aboard Turkey's pioneering drone-carrying amphibious assault ship, TCG Anadolu. This maritime version of the Bayraktar TB2 is powered by an engine produced by Turkish firm Tusaş Engine Industries (TEI). Demir indicated that the Anadolu will accommodate between 30 and 50 Bayraktar TB3 drones equipped with folding wings, capable of both takeoff and landing on the ship’s deck. Selçuk Bayraktar, Baykar’s Chief Technology Officer, announced in 2021 that the TB3’s maiden flight was planned for 2022.

Bayraktar Kızılelma

Main article: Baykar Bayraktar Kızılelma

The Bayraktar Kızılelma (meaning Red Apple) is an unmanned combat aerial vehicle under development as of 2021. It is designed to be a supersonic, jet-powered, single-engine stealth drone capable of operating from aircraft carriers, with its inaugural flight anticipated in 2023.[14][15]

Company specifications indicate that the Kızılelma will operate at an altitude of approximately 35,000 feet (11,000 metres), feature a maximum takeoff weight of 5.5 tons, carry a payload capacity of 1.5 tons, and be able to transport up to 1 ton of munitions.

Bayraktar VTOL

Main article: Bayraktar VTOL

Bayraktar YIHA III

The Bayraktar YIHA III represents an affordable loitering munition system co-developed by Turkey’s Baykar Technologies alongside Pakistan’s National Aerospace Science and Technology Park (NASTP). This precision-guided aerial weapon is tailored for asymmetric warfare scenarios, focusing on neutralizing high-value targets while maintaining a low logistical burden and minimizing operational expenses.[16][17][18][19][20][21]

Ethiopia

As of 2023, Bayraktar TB2 drones are actively deployed within Ethiopia. During the 2023 conflict in the Amhara Region, drone strikes predominantly resulted in civilian casualties according to various media outlets. On 10 December, BBC News reported that between 30 and 40 individuals were killed in a strike targeting the Amhara Sayint district. Additionally, Al Jazeera English obtained video evidence from a 30 November drone attack near Delanta Primary Hospital in Wegel Tena that resulted in the deaths of five civilians, including hospital personnel. The footage depicted an ambulance engulfed in flames with its roof collapsed, consistent with a direct aerial assault.[22]

PKK/YPG–Turkey conflict

The Turkish armed forces have prominently deployed the TB-2 drones in counterinsurgency missions targeting positions of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and People's Protection Units (YPG) located across the borders in Iraq and Syria. Both Turkey, the United States, and the European Union classify the PKK as a terrorist entity. Similarly, Turkey designates the YPG as a terrorist group due to its close affiliation with the PKK.

Libya

In June 2019, international media outlets reported that the internationally recognized,[23] Government of National Accord (GNA) employed Bayraktar TB2 drones to conduct strikes against an airbase controlled by General Haftar's Libyan National Army (LNA). Despite the United Nations arms embargo related to Libya’s ongoing civil conflict, it is believed that the GNA forces operated at least three Bayraktar TB2 unmanned combat aerial vehicles over Tripoli. On 6 June 2019, LNA assaults on Mitiga Airport resulted in the destruction of two GNA Bayraktar TB2 drones along with an operations center.[24][25] Video footage confirms at least one Bayraktar TB2 UAV operating over Tripoli,[26] preparing to land at Mitiga’s military sector under GNA-aligned control.

Syria

In March 2020, Turkey deployed Bayraktar TB2 drones, Anka-S UAVs, along with various Koral electronic jamming devices in a coordinated campaign targeting Syrian Army positions during the Operation Spring Shield. This operation was initiated after Turkish forces suffered losses inflicted by Russian troops in northwestern Syria at the end of February 2020.[27][28][29] Experts regarded this deployment as a significant tactical breakthrough and a successful demonstration of Turkey's UAV capabilities.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name[30][31]

Azerbaijan and 2020 Nagorno Karabakh war

Bayraktar TB2 at the 2020 Victory Parade in Baku, Azerbaijan

In June 2020, Azerbaijan's Defence Minister, Zakir Hasanov, confirmed the country's decision to acquire Bayraktar drones from Turkey.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Throughout the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war, Bayraktar TB2 UAVs were effectively employed against Armenian forces.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name These drones were instrumental in neutralizing Armenian artillery, infantry positions, and military assets such as BM-30 Smerch multiple rocket launchers, T-72 main battle tanks, and both BMP-1 and BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicles.[32]Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Additionally, TB2 drones succeeded in destroying several air defense units, including multiple Osa, Strela-10, and five S-300 systems.[32]Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name

Ukraine

Bayraktar TB2 operated by the Ukrainian Air Force equipped with MAM-L, with two ground control stations visible in the background

In 2019, as part of its military upgrade initiative, the Armed Forces of Ukraine procured 12 Bayraktar TB2 drones.[33][34] Following effective deployment of these UAVs, the Ukrainian Navy placed an order for an additional five Bayraktar TB2 units, which were reportedly delivered throughout 2020.[35] Simultaneously, Turkish and Ukrainian authorities announced a collaborative manufacturing agreement to locally produce 48 more Bayraktar TB2 drones within Ukraine.[36]

During the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ukraine extensively employed Bayraktar TB2 drones for reconnaissance missions and offensive strikes against Russian land convoys.[37][38][39] These UAVs were instrumental in hindering Russian troop advances during the conflict’s initial phase.[40]

Valery Zaluzhny, Chief of General Staff of Ukraine, shared images on his Facebook profile showcasing Bayraktar TB2 operations, including the successful destruction of a Russian-built Buk surface-to-air missile system.[41]

Operators

As of September, Baykar has reportedly supplied its unmanned aerial vehicles to 32 nations.[42] Among these, 31 countries operate the TB2 model, while 8 have incorporated the Akıncı drones into their fleets. Notably, 7 of the Akıncı operators also utilize TB2 drones.[43]

Certain recipient countries of Baykar’s drones remain undisclosed publicly. The following list enumerates the known operators:[44]

Gallery

  • Cutaway view of Bayraktar Ground Control Station
    Cutaway view of Bayraktar Ground Control Station
  • Ground Control Station for Bayraktar Tactical UAV
    Ground Control Station for Bayraktar Tactical UAV
  • Team behind Baykar's UAV development
    Team behind Baykar's UAV development

See also

References

  1. ↑ "IDEF 2011: Bayraktar tactical UAV nears production". Shephardmedia.com. 13 May 2014.
  2. ↑ "'Heron'a karşı 'Çaldıran'" (in turkish). Hürriyet.com. 1 October 2009.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: unrecognized language (link)
  3. ↑ "Israeli Manufacturers' Turkish UAV Contract". Defence Industry Daily. 22 December 2011.
  4. ↑ "From a Hobby to the Peaks of Technology / The Turkish Perspective January-February 2011 Issue 2" (PDF). 1 January 2011.
  5. ↑ "Türk SİHA'larının Gelişim Serüveni" (in turkish). September 2021.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: unrecognized language (link)
  6. ↑ "Bayraktar Caldiran UAV" (PDF).
  7. ↑ "Milli İHA'ya yerli füze takıldı!".
  8. ↑ Youtube Archived 5 January 2016 at the Wayback Machine May I present to you eventually, 100% Turkish manufactured armed UAV: Bayraktar TB2
  9. ↑ "Official video footage of Turkish UCAV tests". YouTube.
  10. ↑ "Yerli IHA ilk harekatinda 5 teroristi vurdu". 8 September 2016.
  11. ↑ "Bayraktar ilk silahlı operasyonunu PKK'ya yaptı". Kokpit.Aero. 12 September 2016.
  12. ↑ "Turkey Steadily Builds UAV Capabilities". 13 May 2014. Archived from the original on August 16, 2014.
  13. ↑ "Turkey's unmanned ambitions shift up gear". 6 March 2014.
  14. ↑ "Baykar Targets 2023 for MIUS First Flight". Shephard Media. 2021-07-23.
  15. ↑ Ozberk, Tayfun (2021-07-22). "Deployment of MIUS Unmanned Combat Aircraft from LHD Anadolu by Turkey". Naval News. Retrieved 2021-08-09.
  16. ↑ "YX-69 Loitering Munition co-produced by NASTP & Baykar".
  17. ↑ "Pakistan YX 69 Baykar".
  18. ↑ Team, Quwa (2023-11-12). "What is Baykar Group Doing in Pakistan? - Quwa". Retrieved 2025-05-14.
  19. ↑ BaykarTech. "Baykar subsidiary to conduct R&D studies at Pakistan's NASTP". www.baykartech.com. Retrieved 2025-05-14.
  20. ↑ Aslam, Umair (2023-08-05). "Baykar Opens Office in Pakistan's National Aerospace Science & Technology Park (NASTP)". Global Defense Insight. Retrieved 2025-05-14.
  21. ↑ "YIHA III in india".
  22. ↑ Template:Cite Q
  23. ↑ "As Libya marks 64th independence anniversary, UN envoy urges unity behind new Government". United Nations. 24 December 2015.
  24. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named UNSCreport
  25. ↑ "Libya:Drone test laboratory for a new type of air warfare". Air & Cosmos International. 15 November 2019.
  26. ↑ "Libya: Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 UAV seen at the GNA-held airbase". Military Africa. 11 June 2019.
  27. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named sabahdamage
  28. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named bloomberswarm
  29. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Karnozov 2020
  30. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Gatopoulos 2020
  31. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Petkova 2020
  32. ↑ 32.0 32.1 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Everything We Know About The Fighting That Has Erupted Between Armenia And Azerbaijan
  33. ↑ "Ukraine to buy 5 more Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones in 2021". Daily Sabah. 27 November 2020. Retrieved 19 April 2021.
  34. ↑ Axe, David. "Ukraine Might Field A Drone Strike Force—And It Could Knock Out Russian Tanks". Forbes. Retrieved 19 April 2021.
  35. ↑ "Ukrainian Navy to receive Turkey's Bayraktar TB2 UAVs this year". www.ukrinform.net. 27 January 2021. Retrieved 19 April 2021.
  36. ↑ "Ukrainian Navy Will Receive Turkish Bayraktar TB2 Drones This Year – The Defense Post". 28 January 2021. Retrieved 19 April 2021.
  37. ↑ Hetzner, Christiaan (4 March 2022). "The inanimate hero of Ukraine's defensive war against Russia, cheap Turkish drones may pose a broader threat". Fortune.
  38. ↑ Philipps, Dave; Schmitt, Eric (2022-03-11). "Over Ukraine, Lumbering Turkish-Made Drones Are an Ominous Sign for Russia". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 2022-03-11.
  39. ↑ JOVANOVSKI, KRISTINA (7 March 2022). "Turkey defense industry to benefit from drones' success in Ukraine". The Jerusalem Post.
  40. ↑ Isachenkov, Vladmir; Bilginsoy, Zeynep (5 August 2022). "Putin hosts Erdogan for talks on trade, Ukraine, Syria". AP News.
  41. ↑ "Advanced Warfare: Game Changer Turkish Drones!". Discover all about Turkish People & Turkey!. 2022-02-28. Retrieved 2022-03-23.
  42. ↑ The count of agreements signed by Baykar with international clients for UAV platforms has surpassed 30.
  43. ↑ Details on the number of countries importing Baykar's Akıncı and TB2 drones were disclosed recently.
  44. ↑ International demand for Bayraktar drones continues to reach unprecedented levels.
  45. ↑ Turkey has delivered Bayraktar TB2 UAVs to the armed forces of Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
  46. ↑ Information on the conflict involving Armenia and Azerbaijan includes details on UAV usage.
  47. ↑ Reports highlight how drone warfare played a crucial role in defending Tripoli.
  48. ↑ The Ukrainian military has employed Turkish-made Bayraktar Mini drones against invading forces.
  49. ↑ Ukraine aims to procure 48 units of the Bayraktar TB2 armed drones.
  50. ↑ Turkmenistan showcased its newly acquired Bayraktar TB2 drones during a military parade.
  51. ↑ Morocco has received its initial shipment of Turkish-origin drones.
  52. ↑ Poland is set to become the first NATO member nation to purchase Turkish drones.
  53. ↑ Kyrgyzstan has become a new customer for the Bayraktar TB2 armed UAVs.
  54. ↑ The country is preparing to receive Turkish armed drones soon.
  55. ↑ The first export contract for Akıncı TİHA was signed, including deliveries to Niger.
  56. ↑ Claims have surfaced regarding deliveries of Bayraktar TB2 drones to Ethiopia.
  57. ↑ Pakistan confirmed acquisitions of both AKINCI TİHA and Bayraktar TB2 UAVs.
  58. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named TB2 and Akinci Pakistan confirmed
  59. ↑ Pakistan operates the YIHA III drone variant as well.
  60. ↑ Bayraktar TB2 drones have been observed in eight African countries so far.
  61. ↑ 61.0 61.1 61.2 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named tyrannosurusrex
  62. ↑ Albania's defense minister announced the arrival of Bayraktar drones in the country.

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External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Kale-Baykar Bayraktar Tactical.

Related profiles

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