Turkish defense titan Baykar, best known for its iconic Bayraktar TB2 drone, has once again captured the global spotlight with the debut of its highly anticipated next-generation unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV)—the Bayraktar TB3. Officially unveiled at the ASDA 2025 defense exhibition in Zagreb, the TB3 marks a significant evolution in Baykar’s ever-expanding drone arsenal, drawing considerable attention from defense circles across Europe and beyond.
Strengthening Regional Defense: Turkey and Croatia Forge Deeper Ties
Baykar’s presence at ASDA 2025 also underscores Turkey’s growing defense cooperation in the Balkans. Croatia and Turkey have steadily strengthened ties through strategic procurement and technology exchange, positioning Baykar as a key player in the region’s evolving security landscape.
Among the most visited exhibits at the show, Baykar’s showcase drew a steady flow of military leaders, defense analysts, and industry stakeholders. On display were scale models of Turkey’s cutting-edge drone fleet, including:
- The stealth-capable Kızılelma
- The heavy-payload Akıncı
- The battle-proven TB2
- The newly unveiled TB3
Each aircraft reflects the rapid technological strides of Turkey’s defense industry—and its growing global influence.
Bayraktar TB3: Twice the Power, Infinite Possibilities
Designed to surpass its predecessor, the TB3 offers nearly double the operational capabilities of the TB2. Its most revolutionary feature? Foldable wings, allowing it to operate seamlessly from both naval vessels and land-based runways.
Key Enhancements of the Bayraktar TB3:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Short Takeoff | Needs less than 200 meters; perfect for carriers and remote airstrips |
| Autonomous Launch & Recovery | Fully automated takeoff and landing operations |
| Increased Payload | Carries up to 290 kg, with six hardpoints for munitions, EW pods |
| Advanced Weaponry | Supports the IHA-123 ballistic missile (range: 190 km) |
| Enhanced Sensors | Equipped with ASELFLIR-500 EO system for real-time ISR |
| AESA Radar | Fighter jet-grade radar system integrated for superior targeting |
Combat-Proven: A Successful Strike Demonstrates Readiness
In a major test on March 25 at Dalaman Air Base, the Bayraktar TB3 executed a precision strike that showcased its combat capabilities. Armed with a Roketsan-developed missile, the drone launched and engaged a 6×6-meter floating target located over 50 kilometers offshore.
In a seamless multi-drone operation, a Bayraktar TB2 laser-designated the target, enabling the TB3 to lock on and execute a pinpoint strike—demonstrating the potential for networked, cooperative drone warfare. The success highlighted not just the TB3’s combat readiness, but also its ability to integrate with existing systems for synchronized, high-precision missions.
Is the TB2 Still Relevant in a Modern Conflict?
Despite reports suggesting that adversaries, including Russian and Ukrainian forces, have adapted to the TB2’s tactics, Baykar maintains that upgrades and countermeasures were already underway well before the conflict.
Turkey’s defense sector remains agile and resilient, thanks to a tightly integrated ecosystem:
- ASELSAN: Delivers advanced sensors and electronic warfare systems.
- Roketsan: Supplies precision-guided munitions and missiles.
- Baykar: Continues to lead in UAV design, avionics, and AI integration.
This synergy ensures the TB2 and its successors remain potent, adaptable, and technologically competitive on the modern battlefield.
Kızılelma: Turkey’s First Stealth Drone Fighter
While the TB3 captured much of the attention, Baykar’s Kızılelma stealth UCAV also made a powerful impression. Set to enter service in 2025, this futuristic drone represents a bold leap into autonomous air combat.
Two variants are in development:
- Subsonic – Designed for endurance and payload flexibility.
- Supersonic – Features internal weapons bays for enhanced stealth and a reduced radar signature.
With the first 10 units expected to join the Turkish Armed Forces next year, Kızılelma will mark a significant milestone in Turkey’s journey toward high-speed, AI-powered, unmanned aerial dominance.
Redefining the Future of Warfare
The unveiling of the Bayraktar TB3 and Kızılelma is more than a showcase of new hardware—it signals a paradigm shift in military strategy. These drones combine stealth, AI, precision firepower, and networked coordination, redefining how tomorrow’s battles will be fought.
Baykar isn’t just pushing the envelope—it’s tearing it wide open.
As the defense world looks toward the future, one thing is clear: the next generation of air dominance is unmanned—and it’s already here.
