Colombian Air Force travels to Türkiye to assess Bayraktar TB3 UAV
Baykar Bayraktar TB3, carrier-based medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE), successfully performs landing and take-off tests on the TCG Anadolu sailing off the coast of Canakkale for two more times without the use of support equipment in Türkiye on November 26, 2024. (Baykar - Anadolu Agency)
High-ranking officials from the Colombian Aerospace Force (FAC) have reportedly traveled to Türkiye to examine the operational capabilities of the Baykar’s Bayraktar TB3, a newly designed unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that completed its first flight in October 2023.
Colombia’s interest in the Bayraktar TB3
The FAC’s interest in the Turkish UAV is part of a broader evaluation of remotely piloted aircraft capable of operating at medium altitudes with extended endurance (MALE).
The force is considering options for modernizing its fleet, seeking replacements for its current Israeli Elbit Systems Hermes 900 and 450 UAVs, despite the availability of upgrade programs for these models.
While the Bayraktar TB3 presents a strong alternative for FAC, its capabilities differ from those of Airbus Sirtap tactical RPAS (Atlante-II), a system in which Colombia plans to operate. Preliminary plans include acquiring up to six units of the Sirtap model.
Capabilities of the Bayraktar TB3
The Bayraktar TB3 is designed for reconnaissance, surveillance, intelligence missions, and weapons deployment over long distances. Its communication capabilities allow for operations within and beyond the line of sight (LOS/BLOS).
Key specifications include:
- Maximum takeoff weight: 1,450 kg
- Wingspan: 14 meters
- Length: 8.35 meters
- Height: 2.6 meters
- Payload capacity: 280 kg
- Maximum speed: 296 km/h (powered by a PD170 turbodiesel engine)
- Endurance: Over 24 hours
- Service ceiling: Approximately 9,000 meters
Advanced features and potential applications
The Bayraktar TB3 is designed for fully autonomous takeoff and landing, including operations on short-runway aircraft carriers. Beyond reconnaissance and intelligence roles, it can conduct armed operations with smart munitions mounted under its wings.
Additional features include:
- Fully autonomous takeoff, landing, and taxiing
- Operational altitude: 20,000 feet
- Communications: LOS & BLOS capabilities
- Naval and land-based operational versions
- Payload options: laser-guided, INS/GPS-guided, infrared-guided, and air-to-air munitions
- ISR capabilities: interchangeable EO/IR/LD systems, multi-mode AESA radar, ELINT, and sonobuoys
Colombia’s evaluation process
The FAC’s assessment of the Bayraktar TB3 UAV aligns with its ongoing efforts to modernize its aerial surveillance and defense capabilities.
As Colombia explores options for expanding its UAV fleet, the outcome of this evaluation will be crucial in determining whether the TB3 meets its strategic needs.
