In an effort to change the balance of power in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean, Turkey is expanding the use of unmanned systems from air to sea, applying the successful Bayraktar model to its naval strategy. Following the development of the TB3 aerial drones, Ankara is proceeding with the construction of Albatros – unmanned vessels designed for target attack operations, as well as suicide missions, functioning as “maritime kamikaze drones.”
Turkey tests new naval kamikaze drones
In the coming days, the Turkish Navy is expected to proceed with tests of the new naval kamikaze drones as part of an exercise that will also include the Bayraktar TB3. According to leaks from the Turkish Ministry of Defense, the Baykar unmanned aircraft will function as a relay, ensuring communication links between the operator -who will be located on the TCG Anadolu ship- and the Albatros, which will execute the target attack mission. The exercise scenario involves the destruction of a target platform by one or more Albatros units, which will be guided from the air. The exercise has received extensive coverage from the Turkish defense press, which highlights the new operational capabilities acquired by the Turkish armed forces, accompanied by a related video released to the public.
Watch video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LijovrEwJV0
The increasing use of unmanned systems by Turkey, including armed versions capable of carrying missiles, is part of Ankara’s ongoing effort to alter the operational dynamics in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean. The Albatros, designed to operate in swarms, can carry ATMACA-type missile warheads -used against ships- and simulate high-speed asymmetric threats. According to Turkish sources, in a recent test, an Albatros family unmanned vessel managed to sink a target with a single impact, using a 250-kilogram explosive warhead. The system is available in three versions, measuring 5, 7, and 11 meters in length, with speeds exceeding 40 knots, range greater than 400 nautical miles, and fully remote-controlled or autonomous navigation. It features electro-optical equipment, surface target detection radar, and advanced collision avoidance systems, while capable of operating under adverse weather conditions.
The Bayraktar TB3 also presents significant operational capabilities and will function as a relay in the upcoming exercise, ensuring communication links between the operator and the Albatros. This is an upgraded version of the well-known TB2, with the ability to take off and land on ships with suitable decks, such as the TCG Anadolu. The TB3 features foldable wings for easier storage and transport, increased payload capacity allowing it to carry more and heavier weapons, as well as extended range exceeding 1,000 kilometers. It is equipped with a SATCOM satellite communication system, enabling operations beyond line of sight, while capable of executing reconnaissance, targeting, and strike missions, functioning as a force multiplier in maritime and coastal environments.
