Newsletters
Türkiye has demonstrated an alternative way to keep its unmanned combat aircraft operational when conventional runways are unavailable, putting three drones through landing and takeoff maneuvers on a highway.
The Thursday exercise brought together two Bayraktar TB2 unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) and an Akinci drone, all three of which successfully used the Manisa-Balikesir Highway as a makeshift runway, according to defense manufacturer Baykar.
The aircraft took off from three separate locations before converging on the highway. A Bayraktar TB2 departed from Kesan, an Akinci from Corlu and another TB2 operated by the Turkish Land Forces Command from Izmir.
All three completed landing and takeoff maneuvers on the designated road section, demonstrating their ability to operate without relying on conventional airfields.
Baykar plans to extend the runway-free operating capability across its entire domestic aircraft portfolio, including Kizilelma, Türkiye's unmanned fighter jet, and the Bayraktar TB3, which is designed to take off and land from ships with short runways.
The company developed the concept for emergency scenarios in which conventional runways cannot be used. Field assessments conducted at different locations across Türkiye helped identify suitable highway sections for the operations.
The exercise was carried out through coordination between Baykar, the Ministry of National Defense and the General Directorate of Highways.
Firefighting and ambulance crews remained on standby throughout the operation, while the Manisa Governorship, provincial gendarmerie and police teams enforced security measures along the route.
Representatives of the Turkish Armed Forces and Interior Ministry also monitored the exercise.
The demonstration comes as Baykar continues to expand its international footprint in the unmanned aerial vehicle market.
The company, which has financed its operations independently since its establishment, recorded $2.2 billion in exports in 2025, retaining its position as the world's largest unmanned aerial vehicle exporter. Overseas sales accounted for 90% of its revenue.
Baykar has signed export agreements with 40 countries, including 37 for the Bayraktar TB2 and 16 for the Akinci.
Set as preferred source
Set as preferred source
1 min read
1 min read
