Defense & Military
Baykar’s UAV Milestones: Redefining Global Defense Technology
Baykar’s Milestones in UAV Development and Global Expansion
Baykar, a leading Turkish defense company, has been making headlines with its groundbreaking advancements in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology. Under the leadership of Selcuk Bayraktar, the company has achieved significant milestones, including the successful flight tests of its latest drones and the acquisition of Italy’s Piaggio Aerospace. These developments not only solidify Baykar’s position as a global leader in UAV manufacturing but also highlight Türkiye’s growing influence in the defense industry.
The Bayraktar series of drones, particularly the Bayraktar TB2 and TB3, has been instrumental in transforming modern warfare. These UAVs have been deployed in various military operations worldwide, showcasing their advanced capabilities and reliability. With the recent introduction of the Kizilelma unmanned fighter aircraft and the expansion of its global operations, Baykar is setting new standards in the UAV sector.
Advancements in UAV Technology
Baykar’s recent achievements include the first successful flight test of the Bayraktar Akinci-C and the continued development of its UAV family. The Bayraktar Akinci has surpassed 50,000 flight hours, with the goal of reaching 100,000 hours. Additionally, the Bayraktar Kalkan DIHA and Kemankes mini smart cruise missiles have been introduced to the product lineup, further enhancing Baykar’s capabilities.
One of the most notable achievements is the Bayraktar TB2 UAV’s execution of an autonomous barrel roll, a first for unmanned aerial vehicles. This maneuver demonstrates the advanced maneuverability and technological sophistication of Baykar’s drones. The Bayraktar Kizilelma’s production prototype also successfully completed its first flight test, marking a significant step forward in the development of unmanned fighter aircraft.
“Bayraktar TB2 UAV has become the first unmanned aerial vehicle to execute an autonomous barrel roll, demonstrating its advanced maneuverability,” said Selcuk Bayraktar.
Retirement of First-Generation UAVs
Baykar has also announced the retirement of one of the first Bayraktar TB2 UAVs that entered service in 2014 with the Turkish Land Forces Command. This UAV accumulated 10,000 flight hours before being decommissioned. Another Bayraktar TB2 operated by the Gendarmerie General Command also reached 10,000 flight hours, successfully completing its operational life.
The retirement of these first-generation UAVs marks the end of an era and highlights the rapid advancements in UAV technology. Baykar’s commitment to innovation ensures that its newer models, such as the Bayraktar TB3 and Kizilelma, continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in unmanned aerial systems.
Historic Carrier Landing of Bayraktar TB3
The Bayraktar TB3 set a historic aviation milestone by becoming the first UAV to take off and land from a short-runway aircraft carrier, the TCG Anadolu. This achievement is a major global breakthrough, making the Bayraktar TB3 the leading UAV in its class. The successful carrier landing demonstrates the versatility and adaptability of Baykar’s drones, particularly in naval operations.
With the Bayraktar TB2 exceeding 1 million flight hours, Baykar has reinforced its status as one of the world’s most battle-proven UAV manufacturers. The Bayraktar TB3’s operational deployment, both on land and at sea, further solidifies Baykar’s dominance in the UAV market.
Baykar’s Global Market Share and Expansion
Baykar now holds 60% of the global UAV market, with Türkiye commanding 65% of the industry worldwide. The company has become the largest UAV manufacturer in the world for four consecutive years, surpassing American competitors by threefold. Baykar’s acquisition of Piaggio Aerospace marks a significant step in its expansion into manned aviation in Europe.
In addition to its technological advancements, Baykar continues its humanitarian contributions, including the donation of permanent housing units for earthquake victims in Adiyaman, Hatay, and Kahramanmaras. This initiative reflects Baykar’s commitment to its mission and the well-being of communities.
“With this initiative, we have demonstrated the spirit and mission of Baykar to our entire civilization,” stated Selcuk Bayraktar.
Conclusion
Baykar’s recent developments in UAV technology and global expansion underscore its leadership in the defense industry. From the historic carrier landing of the Bayraktar TB3 to the acquisition of Piaggio Aerospace, Baykar is setting new benchmarks in unmanned aerial systems. These achievements not only enhance Türkiye’s defense capabilities but also contribute to the global advancement of UAV technology.
Looking ahead, Baykar’s continued innovation and strategic acquisitions are expected to drive further growth and influence in the defense sector. As the company expands its global footprint and introduces new UAV models, it is poised to remain at the forefront of the industry for years to come.
FAQ
What is the significance of Baykar’s acquisition of Piaggio Aerospace?
The acquisition of Piaggio Aerospace enhances Baykar’s market entry into Europe, increases technological independence, and expands production capacity. It also provides Piaggio Aerospace with financial stability and access to the growing UAV market.
What are the key features of the Bayraktar TB3?
The Bayraktar TB3 is an armed UCAV capable of taking off and landing on short-deck ships. It has a length of 8.35 meters, a wingspan of 14 meters, a maximum take-off weight of 1450 kilograms, and a payload capacity of 280 kilograms. Its endurance exceeds 24 hours.
How has Baykar contributed to humanitarian efforts?
Baykar has donated permanent housing units for earthquake victims in Adiyaman, Hatay, and Kahramanmaras, demonstrating its commitment to community well-being and its mission.
Sources: Türkiye Today, Naval News, Simple Flying
Defense & Military
GE Aerospace and Magellan Sign F414 MRO MOU for Canada
GE Aerospace and Magellan Aerospace signed an MOU at Farnborough to establish a Canadian F414 engine MRO center if Canada selects the Gripen E.
GE Aerospace and Magellan Aerospace Corporation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on July 22, 2026, at the Farnborough International Airshow to establish a Canadian MRO center for the F414-GE-39E engine. The agreement is entirely contingent on the Government of Canada selecting the Saab JAS 39 Gripen E for its future fighter fleet.
Announced in a GE Aerospace press release, the proposed MRO work would take place at Magellan’s facility in Mississauga, Ontario. The partnership aims to position Magellan as Canada’s domestic center of excellence for F414 engine sustainment, guaranteeing sovereign support capabilities for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) if the Gripen E is acquired.
Industrial offsets and the Gripen E campaign
The MOU represents a calculated component of a broader industrial offset campaign by Saab AB and its suppliers to secure a portion of Canada’s fighter procurement contract. The Canadian government is currently reviewing its fighter jet strategy. While Ottawa previously committed to purchasing a fleet of 88 Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II Military-Aircraft, the government is evaluating a potential mixed fleet that could include domestically built Gripen E fighters.
To strengthen the Gripen’s bid, Saab has been securing agreements with Canadian aerospace firms to promise domestic job creation and technology transfer. This engine sustainment agreement follows a similar MOU signed on July 17, 2026, between Saab and Canadian aviation training firm CAE Inc. to cooperate on advanced fighter pilot Training.
Engine sustainment and domestic capabilities
The F414 engine family has accumulated more than 5 million flight hours globally. The new agreement builds on a 60-year working relationship between GE Aerospace and Magellan Aerospace Corporation.
Paul Ferraro, Vice President of Defense Engines & Services at GE Aerospace, stated that the agreement spans both military and commercial engines and will ensure the RCAF has in-country access to sustainment services to maintain F414 readiness.
Haydn Martin, Vice President of Business Development, Marketing, and Contracts at Magellan Aerospace Corporation, emphasized the operational benefits of the proposed partnership.
“Should the Saab JAS 39 Gripen E aircraft be selected, Magellan Aerospace will be ready to provide world-class engine maintenance, repair and overhaul services that enhance operational readiness for the Royal Canadian Air Force while maintaining highly skilled Canadian jobs, developing advanced technical expertise, and strengthening Canada’s long-term defence industrial capacity,” Martin said.
AirPro News analysis
We view this MOU as a clear signal that the competition for Canada’s fighter fleet remains highly active despite the initial F-35A selection. By lining up domestic heavyweights like Magellan and CAE, Saab is directly addressing Ottawa’s stringent Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) policy requirements. If the Government of Canada opts for a mixed fleet, establishing sovereign MRO capabilities for the F414 engine will be a critical factor in mitigating supply chain risks and ensuring RCAF operational independence. Until a formal procurement decision is finalized, these agreements remain strategic positioning rather than guaranteed Contracts.
Sources: GE Aerospace
Photo Credit: GE Aerospace
Defense & Military
CBP AMO Orders 10 Airbus H125 Helicopters for Fleet Expansion
CBP Air and Marine Operations contracts for 10 Airbus H125 helicopters, expanding a 30-year fleet of over 100 rotary-wing aircraft.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations (CBP AMO) has finalized a contract to acquire 10 additional Airbus H125 helicopters, expanding a fleet modernization effort that relies heavily on the single-engine platform for border security and law enforcement missions.
In a press release issued on July 7, 2026, Airbus confirmed the agreement, which reinforces a three-decade relationship between the federal agency and the aerospace manufacturer. The new helicopters will be assembled at the Airbus Helicopters production facility in Columbus, Mississippi.
Expanding the airborne law enforcement fleet
The latest acquisition builds upon a previous order placed in August 2020, when CBP AMO contracted for 16 H125 helicopters to upgrade its aging rotary-wing assets. The agency currently operates a total fleet of more than 240 aircraft, which includes over 100 helicopters from the Airbus H120 and H125 families delivered over the past 30 years.
The H125, formerly known as the Eurocopter AS350, is utilized by CBP AMO for a variety of demanding flight profiles, including border surveillance, suspect pursuit, and general public safety operations across the United States.
Bart Reijnen, Head of the North America Region for Airbus Helicopters, stated that the expansion “underscores the long-standing collaboration” between the manufacturer and the federal agency. He added that the selection highlights the trust placed in the H125 to execute critical public safety missions under demanding conditions, with Airbus committing to provide comprehensive services to maintain mission readiness.
Virtual reality integration for pilot training
As CBP AMO increases its H125 inventory, the agency is simultaneously overhauling how it trains the personnel who fly them. In November 2025, CBP became the first federal law enforcement agency and the first branch of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to integrate virtual reality into its aerial training program.
According to reporting by FLYING Magazine, the agency awarded a contract to adopt an FAA-qualified Airbus H125 virtual reality flight simulator developed by Loft Dynamics. The simulator is being installed at the CBP AMO training center in Oklahoma City, where it will be used to train the agency’s roster of more than 600 pilots.
AirPro News analysis
We view CBP AMO’s continued investment in the H125 platform as a clear indicator of the agency’s preference for fleet commonality. Operating a standardized fleet of over 100 H125-family helicopters significantly reduces maintenance overhead, streamlines supply chains, and simplifies pilot transition training. Furthermore, Airbus’s strategy of assembling these aircraft in Columbus, Mississippi, likely plays a crucial role in navigating federal procurement requirements, ensuring that the European manufacturer remains highly competitive for U.S. government contracts. The parallel investment in Loft Dynamics’ VR simulators suggests the agency is preparing for a sustained, long-term operational lifespan for the H125 fleet.
Sources: Airbus
Photo Credit: Airbus
Defense & Military
Bombardier Defense Signs 10-Year Support Deal With Sweden
Bombardier Defense and FMV finalized a 10-year support agreement for Sweden’s two Global 6500 TP 106 military transport aircraft.
Bombardier Defense and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) finalized a 10-year Services Support Agreement on July 22, 2026, securing long-term maintenance and operational readiness for Sweden’s newly acquired fleet of two Global 6500 transport aircraft.
Announced during the Farnborough International Airshow in a company press release, the agreement enrolls the Swedish Armed Forces (SWEAF) in Bombardier’s Smart Services Defense program. The comprehensive support package covers parts, labor, and engineering expertise for the aircraft, which are designated as the TP 106 in Swedish military service and replace the nation’s aging Gulfstream IV and Gulfstream G550 head-of-state transport fleet.
Fleet modernization and delivery timeline
The targeted acquisition deal for the two aircraft was valued at SEK 1.1 billion ($113 million) and formalized in May 2025, according to reporting by Aviation International News. The rapid procurement was enabled by utilizing existing airframes previously operated in Bombardier’s demonstration fleet, which were subsequently modified to meet Swedish Military-Aircraft requirements.
The formal handover of the aircraft took place on June 1, 2026, at the Uppland Wing F 16, as reported by Nordic Defence Sector. The aircraft will be operated by the 75th Swedish Civil Aviation Squadron at Skaraborg’s F7 Air Fleet, based at Stockholm Arlanda Airports (ARN), primarily conducting VIP and head-of-state transport missions.
Smart Services Defense and operational commonality
The 10-year agreement provides comprehensive cost coverage and logistical support for the new fleet. Bombardier stated the program includes landing gear and auxiliary power unit maintenance, ground support equipment, technical assistance, and access to mobile response teams.
Paul Sislian, Bombardier’s Executive Vice President of Aircraft Sales and Aftermarket Services, noted the program provides seamless original equipment OEMs support for the Swedish military.
“Through our Smart Services Defense program, the Swedish Armed Forces will benefit from seamless OEM support, enhanced readiness and predictable lifestyle costs, giving them the confidence to stay focused on the mission while we support their aircraft every step of the way,” Sislian said.
The selection of the Global 6500 platform offers strategic maintenance and operational commonality with Sweden’s incoming airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) fleet. The Swedish Armed Forces are procuring the Saab GlobalEye, designated the S 106, which is also built upon the Bombardier Global aircraft family architecture.
AirPro News analysis
The 10-year support agreement underscores a growing trend among defense ministries to rely on commercial OEMs for turnkey lifecycle support rather than developing bespoke military maintenance pipelines for commercial derivative aircraft. By aligning the TP 106 VIP transport fleet with the underlying platform of the S 106 GlobalEye, the Swedish Armed Forces are establishing a unified logistical footprint. We view this procurement Strategy as a highly efficient approach to fleet modernization, reducing training burdens for maintenance personnel and ensuring higher dispatch reliability through Bombardier’s established global civilian support network.
Sources: Bombardier
Photo Credit: Bombardier
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