Baykar’s Bayraktar TB3 UCAV successfully performed four consecutive takeoff-landing tests on TCG Anadolu LHD (L400) with full autonomy in the Gulf of Saros.

Following the first flight from TCG Anadolu towards the end of 2024, Bayraktar TB3 is continuing its tests onboard the LHD set to become a pioneering platform in the shipborne deployment of UCAVs.

Bayraktar TB3 performing the sorties fully autonomously is an important demonstration on the way to deployment. Lowered human involvement in something as delicate as sortie of a fixed-wing platform on an LHD with a single runway can reduce human error and be potentially more efficient in timing.

Takeoff and Landing Capabilities of Bayraktar TB3

Bayraktar TB3 was designed from scratch as a UCAV capable of taking off from and landing on LHDs without the aid of arresting gear. The UCAV, powered by TEI's PD170 turbodiesel engine, can take off with the assistance of a ski jump and perform landings at rolling distances of less than 60 m.

Armament Tests of Bayraktar TB3

Designed as a UCAV, unlike Bayraktar TB2, which was fitted with armament at later stages, Bayraktar TB3 did not take long to start its weapon tests following the successful sortie tests from TCG Anadolu.

The first test was with the MAM-T glide munition of ROKETSAN, tested many times by the Akıncı UCAV and developed in several configurations over the last few years.

The following munition tests were performed with the laser seeker configuration of the UAV-122 aeroballistic missile. The first test was conducted with a rather standard altitude of launch, while the second test was performed at an altitude of 300 ft to demonstrate low-altitude strike capabilities.

More munitions will be integrated, including TOLUN small-diameter bomb, Kemankeş 1 loitering munition, and SUNGUR air-to-air missile (Mainly MANPDS.

Author: Kaan Azman

Editor: Özgür Ekşi