The new Bayraktar TB3 multi-purpose attack aircraft was demonstrated in Turkey. Photo of the first drone of this type published Baykar’s coach and co-owner is Selçuk Bayraktar. Currently, this new Turkish UAV is preparing for its first flight. One of the features of the aircraft is the folding wings, which are necessary for placement on ships.

Bayraktar, “Bayraktar TB3, counting the days to his first flight after his brother Kızılelma.” said.

Bayraktar TB3 aircraft. March 2023. Photograph: Selçuk Bayraktar

Published photos show how the new attack drone stands next to other aircraft at the Baykar production facility. The engine is already installed on it. It was previously reported that there will be a new PD170 turbodiesel aircraft engine.

According to Baykar’s presentation, Bayraktar TB3 drone will have a maximum take-off weight of 1,450 kilograms with a payload of 280 kilograms. The maximum duration of its flight will be more than 50 hours. And folding wings will make the UAV more convenient for transportation.

The drone is visually similar to the Bayraktar TB2, but with larger dimensions and folding wings for placement on ships. The drone was to make its first flight in 2022, but it was delayed. After the tests, the new UAV is planned to be deployed in a group of 30 to 40 people on the new Turkish universal landing craft Anadolu (L400) so that they can take off and land from the flight deck.

The command center to be integrated into Anatolia will be able to use at least 10 Bayraktar TB3s simultaneously in operations. According to the company, unmanned aerial vehicles will be able to land on the deck of the ship without a special brake hook due to their technical features.