KEŞAN, — Turkish defense manufacturer Baykar has successfully tested a new capability for its Bayraktar TB2 unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), using it to carry and launch FPV kamikaze drones in flight.
The test took place on November 4 at the Keşan Flight Training and Test Center in Türkiye. The TB2 took off carrying 16 Skydagger FPV drones, mounted on specially developed racks, with eight under each wing. During the test, two drones were released and successfully struck their designated ground targets.
The released drones were controlled by independent ground operators through a communications link established via the Bayraktar TB2. This allows the larger UAV to act as both an airborne carrier and a communications relay for smaller drones. Baykar Chairman Selçuk Bayraktar shared footage showing the aircraft carrying the drones and their successful target strikes.
Extending FPV Drone Operating Range
Conventional FPV drones generally depend on direct communications with ground operators, which limits their operating range. Using the TB2 as an airborne relay can help overcome ground obstacles and extend communication coverage, allowing operators to control drones at greater distances.
The new arrangement introduces a mothership concept for the TB2, allowing it to carry and deploy multiple smaller attack drones alongside its existing MAM-L and MAM-C laser-guided smart munitions.
The test demonstrated the aircraft's ability to carry 16 FPV drones, release them in flight and provide a communications link for their operators. However, Baykar has not disclosed a maximum operating range for the new configuration.
The FPV drones used in the demonstration were developed by Turkish manufacturer Skydagger. The integration could expand the TB2's mission capabilities by adding smaller, remotely operated attack drones to its existing weapons options. Baykar has also identified its wider UAV fleet, including Akıncı, Kızılelma and TB3, as potential platforms for future integration.
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