Bayraktar TB3 UCAV Enters Mass Production with Exports on the Horizon

ISTANBUL: Trkiye’s Bayraktar TB3 unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) has begun mass production, with exports anticipated in the next five to six months. This development was announced by Haluk Bayraktar, chairman of SAHA Istanbul and CEO of defense firm Baykar, at the SAHA EXPO 2024 in Istanbul.

According to Anadolu Agency, Bayraktar highlighted the impressive growth of the defense industry expo, which has expanded its footprint to 90,000 square meters from its initial 10,000 square meters. This year’s event saw participation from 1,478 companies, including 766 international and 712 domestic firms, reflecting its rising global influence. Over the four-day event, significant progress was made in the form of finalized agreements, including export contracts valued at $6.2 billion. A record-breaking 123 signing ceremonies were held, marking a milestone for the Turkish defense sector.

Bayraktar also noted Trkiye’s defense exports reached $5.5 billion last year, fueled by a notable increase in artillery ammunit
ion production, mainly driven by the private sector. ARCA, the main sponsor of SAHA EXPO 2024, secured an export deal exceeding $2 billion and now reportedly produces more artillery shells in one month than the total produced across the American continent. Numerous contracts were also signed with Trkiye’s Ministry of Defense and major defense entities such as ASELSAN, TUBITAK, and Roketsan, highlighting the collaborative efforts within the sector. Baykar itself secured agreements with suppliers for camera systems.

Emphasizing the advancements of the TB3 UCAV, Bayraktar noted it builds on the success of its predecessor, the TB2, with enhanced capabilities like landing on naval platforms, adding versatility to Trkiye’s expanding defense technology arsenal.