New Bayraktar factory in Ukraine to produce innovative TB2 and TB3 drones

In August 2023, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense struck a deal with Bayraktar to build a service center for its drones in Ukraine. It was emphasized during that conversation that this project was separate from a larger initiative - constructing a new factory for manufacturing drones. Until recently, very little was known about this endeavor. However, Haluk Bayraktar, director of the Turkish company, has now disclosed that the Bayraktar TB2 or Bayraktar TB3 drones will be produced in Ukraine.

The Bayraktar TB2 drones became a considerable obstacle for the Russian army, especially in the initial stage of the conflict. The Ukrainian forces used these drones effectively, inflicting substantial financial losses on the invaders. As time went on, the frequency of drone attacks diminished, and they were repurposed primarily for aerial surveillance.

The Bayraktar TB2 drone offers a broad range of functionalities. It is a Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) reconnaissance/attack unit. The design spans 21 feet in length and 39 feet in wingspan. It can reach altitudes of up to 26,246 feet and speeds exceeding 124 mph. As for its weaponry, it utilizes laser-guided MAM-C and MAM-L missiles that weigh 14 lbs and 48 lbs, respectively, and is equipped with various warheads, including guided Bozok bombs weighing 35 lbs with a range of 4 miles.

The Bayraktar TB3, as the name suggests, is the successor of the Bayraktar TB2. This unmanned aircraft had its inaugural flights in October of last year. According to its manufacturer, not only is it more significant, but it is also more lethal.

This drone, likewise, is designed to carry out reconnaissance, surveillance, and combat missions. However, it measures over 26 feet long and boasts a wingspan of 46 feet. Along with a more powerful engine that can reach speeds up to 186 mph, the Bayraktar TB3 weighs a substantial 3,197 lbs, compared to the Bayraktar TB2's 1,433 lbs, meaning it can carry a heavier armament load.

The Bayraktar TB3 distinguishes itself as the world's first drone capable of taking off and landing on ships with short runways. The TCG Anadolu, a universal amphibious assault ship-aircraft carrier commissioned for the Turkish army in early 2023, is a prime example.

Haluk Bayraktar also announced that the factory, built near Kyiv, will employ approximately 500 workers and can produce 120 drones per annum.

Regarding security, he confidently stated that "the plans are proceeding fully, and nothing can stop them."