Baykar Bayraktar TB3
Baykar · Turkey · first flew 2023 · reconnaissance aircraft
The Baykar Bayraktar TB3 is a Turkish carrier-capable armed unmanned combat aerial vehicle developed for operation from TCG Anadolu, featuring folding wings and an uprated engine compared to its TB2 predecessor.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × turboprop, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 8.35 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Twin fin |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Carrier-capable Turkish UCAV with folding wings for naval stowage
- Twin-boom tail derived from Bayraktar TB2 lineage
- TEI PD170 turboprop engine in tractor configuration
Distinguished from the TB2 by its folding-wing configuration, slightly enlarged airframe, and TEI turboprop replacing the Rotax piston engine of the TB2.
Specifications
- The Baykar Bayraktar TB3 has a length of 8.35 m (27 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 14 m (46 ft).
- Typical crew: 0 (unmanned).
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Announced as Turkey developed its first light aircraft carrier, the TB3 addressed the need for a UCAV that could operate from a ship deck, requiring folding wings and strengthened undercarriage for arrested landing. First flight took place in 2023, with carrier trials following.
Variants
The TB3 is the baseline carrier variant; further development variants have been discussed but not confirmed in service.
Where you'll see it
Intended as the primary strike UAV for TCG Anadolu and future Turkish naval aviation; not yet in full operational service as of 2024.
Related aircraft
- Baykar Bayraktar Kızılelma
- Baykar Akıncı
- Baykar Bayraktar Akıncı
- Bayraktar TB2
- Elbit LANIUS
- Shahed 149 Gaza
- DJI Agras R18 Octocopter
- Shahed 161
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