In a recent test, TB2 armed UAV was used as a communications relay for the Kalkan VTOL UAV, which was designed to perform ISR missions to extend coverage.
The new test, followed by a flight of two Kalkan UAVs simultaneously, suggests that Baykar has projections for unmanned-unmanned teaming for Kızılelma unmanned fighter and platforms on the tactical spectrum.
ARES Shipyards is exploring using long-endurance UAVs as a relay for its ULAQ USVs as an alternative to SATCOM and ground-based communications.
Using another vehicle as a relay can save from the burden of adding a SATCOM payload while extending the control range. A Bayraktar TB2 flying near a Kalkan operator can allow for observations closer to the targets for better detail. The communication range for Kalkan has been tested at 100 km so far.
