A Bayraktar TB2 operated by Poland was seen with a cylindrical radome in place of the electro-optical system, hinting at a new alternative for sensor payload.

X user Arthur Golawski shared the image of Bayraktar TB2 carrying what appears to be a multi-function radar. The radar might be Leonardo’s Osprey 30 AESA radar, which Poland has had a desire to use on its armed UAVs for flexibility.

Leonardo offers the Osprey family of radars in a fixed configuration and turning configuration for fixed-wing UAVs. While Osprey 50 is heavy in terms of weight and power demand for Bayraktar TB2, Osprey 30 is more tame in terms of said specifications.

Osprey 30 Radar

Osprey 30 is the lightest in Leonardo’s Osprey family of AESA surveillance radars, small enough to fit multiple radars on medium-weight helicopters for constant coverage.

For fixed-wing platforms, Osprey 30 can be integrated on the nose or inside a radome with a turning mechanism.

Osprey 30, as a multi-function AESA radar, can perform both SAR and air/surface surveillance functions.

Baykar Leonardo Cooperation

Baykar and Leonardo’s forming of a JV to combine Baykar’s experience in the UAV/UCAV field and Leonardo’s in sensor systems will likely bring further cooperation similar to the integration of Osprey 30 AESA radar on Bayraktar TB2.

Previously, Leonardo listed its potential payloads for Baykar’s UAVs in its Industrial Plan 2025. The payloads include Gabbiano nose-mounted radar, the Osprey family of AESA radars, Skyward IRST, and the LEOSS S/T EO/IR system.