Baykar’s Bayraktar TB3 advanced its test campaign on 15 November with a successful live fire mission. The UAV took off from Baykar’s Flight Training and Test Center in Keşan carrying three Roketsan MAM-L smart munitions. It then used the Aselsan built ASELFLIR 500 targeting system and achieved three direct hits.
The test also highlighted the role of the MAM L in the TB3 mission profile. MAM-L weighs 22 kilograms and reaches 15 kilometers. It uses a laser seeker that ensures precise engagements. Its warhead types include armor piercing, high explosive fragmentation and thermobaric options. As a result, it engages tanks, light armored vehicles and personnel with high accuracy.
Baykar designed the TB3 as a naval capable UAV with folding wings and short deck takeoff and landing ability. It supports reconnaissance, surveillance and strike missions while carrying a payload of 280 kilograms. Moreover, it remains airborne for more than 21 hours and operates autonomously during takeoff, landing, taxi and cruise. The aircraft reaches 25 thousand feet and allows both line of sight and beyond line of sight control.
The program began after Türkiye identified a need for a UAV that could operate from the TCG Anadolu. Selçuk Bayraktar announced the TB3 on 29 October 2020 and highlighted the use of a high performance indigenous engine. He later stated that the aircraft would operate alongside the jet powered Kızılelma and carry heavier munitions.
The TB3 completed key steps in rapid succession. It conducted its first run test on 13 October 2023 and executed its first wheel lift moment one week later. It performed its maiden flight on 27 October 2023 and reached 30 thousand feet during its sixteenth sortie. On 19 November 2024 it completed its first short deck takeoff and landing. In January 2025 it began new weapon integration tests with MAM-T and the supersonic IHA 122 missile.
With the latest test the TB3 continues to expand its verified strike capability. Each successful mission strengthens its readiness for operations on Türkiye’s short deck naval platforms.
