Baykar to Test Bayraktar TB3 Sea-Based UAV

Turkey’s Baykar Savunma will soon test two sea-based drones – Bayraktar TB3 and MUIS.

“As everyone is talking about how drone technology is changing battle doctrines ... one of our next objectives is the TB3 drone, capable of taking off from and landing on TCG Anadolu amphibious assault ship (LHD),” Haluk Bayraktar, Baykar GM, was quoted as saying by Reuters.

Turkey does not have an aircraft that can take off from TCG Anadolu. The TB3, with a folding-wing design, could deploy from the short naval runways. With some sections under production, it is expected to see first test flight next year, Bayraktar said.

The first flight of prototype MUIS is expected in 2023. Currently in design phase, MUIS will be jet-powered, with a payload of up to 1.5 tons, Baykar top boss added. The autonomously manoeuvring craft will be capable of operating in tandem with piloted aircraft, and may carry air-to-air missiles.