At EDEX 2023, an event has occurred: Baykar, a Turkish company, is showcasing its TB2 Bayraktar Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV), marking the first time a Turkish firm has participated in this exhibition.
A model of the Bayraktar TB2 UCAV. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)
This development is particularly noteworthy given the context of strained relations between Turkey and Egypt following the rise to power of Egyptian President Abdelfattah al-Sisi.
The TB2 Bayraktar UCAV stands out for its advanced technical features. It is a medium altitude, long endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicle capable of conducting a range of missions. The drone has a wingspan of 12 meters, a length of 6.5 meters, and a maximum takeoff weight of around 650 kilograms, which includes its payload capacity.
Equipped with a high-resolution camera and advanced surveillance capabilities, the TB2 Bayraktar can transmit real-time imagery and data to ground control stations. This feature is critical for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Additionally, the drone is capable of carrying and deploying precision-guided munitions, such as laser-guided bombs or missiles, making it effective for targeted strikes.
The UCAV has an operational range of over 150 kilometers when controlled via line-of-sight communication, and this range can be extended with satellite communication capabilities. With an endurance of more than 24 hours, the TB2 Bayraktar can perform extended missions without the need for frequent refueling or recharging.
Its performance in various conflict zones has demonstrated not only its military effectiveness but also the growing prowess of Turkish defense technology in the global arena.
