Bayraktar TB3 carrier-based UAS flies for 32 hours
It has been rumoured that the Baykar Bayraktar TB3 will have a higher payload capacity than the TB2. (Photo: Baykar)
Turkish drone maker Baykar has demonstrated its new Bayraktar TB3 combat UAS endurance by flying it for 32 hours, covering a distance of 5,700km at an average altitude of 20,000 feet.
The 13th test flight, dubbed Endurance Flight Test, highlighted the TB3’s potential for surveillance use cases. Baykar announced the TB3 project in late 2020 as a development of the TB2 that would be capable of landing and taking off from an LHD Anadolu carrier.
Staying in the sky for an extended time could be useful for the UAS in assisting the carrier’s safety and in escorting ships against small boats and airborne attacks.
In addition to surveillance and reconnaissance, the shipborne system will be able to conduct air-to-air engagements with the smart munitions stationed under its wings, according to Baykar.
It has been widely rumoured that the TB3 will have a higher payload capacity than the TB2, which has a payload capacity of 150kg. Baykar’s latest UAS is also set to receive SATCOM-based control capability, allowing it to take advantage of the total flight distance to a greater degree.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
Germany looks to upgrade KEPD 350 missiles and Sweden begins purchase process
The Taurus KEPD 350 is an air-launched cruise missile developed by Taurus Systems, a joint venture between MBDA Deutschland and Saab Dynamics. The German contract is for maintenance and modernisation of German Air Force missiles.
-
Shield AI teases new upgraded V-Bat variant
The as-yet-unnamed variant will be formally unveiled in April, according to Shield AI. Of the upgrades to the V-Bat, this variant reportedly has a heavier fuel engine and is SATCOM integration-capable.
-
Sikorsky signs $313 million maintenance contract for Australian Navy MH-60Rs
The extension of its partnership with the Royal Australian Navy comes as the latter is increasing its fleet size, anticipating 12 further aircraft to be delivered by 2036.