During the LBA Systems press meeting at the Paris Airshow, Leonardo CEO Roberto Cingolani stated that Bayraktar TB3 would be prepared for aircraft carrying ships.
Following the successful tests from TCG Anadolu (L400) of the Turkish Navy, Bayraktar TB3 is headed for the Italian Navy platforms capable of operating fixed-wing aircraft.
Baykar CTO Selçuk Bayraktar and Leonardo CEO Roberto Cingolani answered inquires of the press in LBA Systems’ first press meeting as a part of the JV’s debut at the Paris Airshow.
During the press meeting, Roberto Cingolani stated that the Italian Navy will start testing the Bayraktar TB3 UCAV, which is currently being exhibited in the LBA Systems outdoor booth with a presentation of potential payloads from Leonardo.
Cingolani added that TB3 will be produced in Italy, and the certification process is set for 2026.
The Italian Navy’s flagship ITS Cavour (550) aircraft carrier and the newly commissioned Trieste LHD are suitable for operating the UCAV. The certification having a short certification time could be credited to Bayraktar TB3 having performed a significant amount of takeoff/landing tests.
With an endurance between 21 hours and 32 hours, depending on the payload (Up to 280 kg), Bayraktar TB3 is set to bring long-endurance armed ISR capability to aircraft carriers and LHDs. In addition to its diverse payload options, Bayraktar TB3’s folding wings minimise the impact on the space left for other aircraft.
When asked about possible payloads, Cingolani stated that it is too early to predict upcoming sensors. Selçuk Bayraktar narrated how the road to partnership is evaluated at the press meeting and said, “Do not compete, make JV.” Selçuk Bayraktar continued his remarks as follows:
“This partnership with Leonardo—a company with world-class expertise in C4I systems and complementary capabilities in aviation—is more than a collaboration; it’s a catalyst for what’s next. Together, we are building a new generation of unmanned systems that are not only intelligent and mission-ready but designed with ethics and interoperability at their core. In a world of growing complexity, this alliance will deliver the AI-driven global security that tomorrow demands. This partnership reflects Baykar’s long-term strategy of deepening international cooperation and expanding our role as a global innovator in high-impact, autonomous defence technologies.”
Italian defence giant Leonardo, among many other items, produces various UAVs under the name of Falco. These systems are developed for the civilian market.
TurDef, on the other hand, asked about possible missions that TB3 could perform as the possible payloads are not unveiled. TurDef questioned whether TB3 could be used for Anti-Submarine Warfare missions. Cingolani did not outrule the possibility but stated that it is very early to make any assumption.
Through the activities of this Joint Venture, Leonardo and Baykar aim to jointly pursue opportunities in both the European and international markets. The companies have also agreed to explore additional areas of collaboration, from commercial cooperation involving Baykar and Leonardo platforms to joint initiatives within multi-domain digital ecosystems.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor: Özgür Ekşi
