Türkiye’s military has achieved global leadership in the development, management, and deployment of drone technology, according to the country’s Chief of General Staff. General Selçuk Bayraktaroğlu made these remarks during NATO’s Steadfast Dart 2026 exercise in Germany, highlighting Türkiye’s significant contributions and advanced capabilities in both armed and unarmed unmanned aerial systems.
Key Takeaways
- Türkiye is recognized as the world leader in drone technology, encompassing use, management, and development.
- The Turkish Armed Forces successfully participated in NATO’s Steadfast Dart 2026 exercise, showcasing domestic military hardware.
- The Bayraktar TB3 UCAV demonstrated its precision by successfully hitting a target after launching from the TCG Anadolu ship.
Dominance in Drone Technology
General Bayraktaroğlu asserted that the Turkish Armed Forces are "truly number one in the world" regarding UAV and UCAV systems. He emphasized that all equipment and weapons utilized by Turkish personnel during the Steadfast Dart 2026 exercise were domestically produced, a point of national pride.
Successful NATO Exercise Participation
Türkiye played a significant role in the large-scale NATO exercise, particularly in amphibious, land, and air command and control operations. General Bayraktaroğlu, accompanied by Turkish Land Forces Commander General Metin Tokel, noted the successful execution of these components. The Turkish Naval Forces Command’s amphibious operations and the Land Forces Command’s mechanized task force operations were highlighted as successful.
Advanced Capabilities Demonstrated
A notable achievement during the exercise was the successful mission of the UCAV Bayraktar TB3. The drone took off from the TCG Anadolu ship and accurately struck its target, demonstrating its operational effectiveness. This accomplishment garnered appreciation from NATO leadership, including Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) General Alexus G. Grynkewich, who acknowledged the size and capability of the Turkish contingent.
International Recognition and National Pride
Units from the Turkish Armed Forces received commendations from various NATO member countries and General Ingo Gerhartz, commander of NATO’s Joint Force Command Brunssum. General Bayraktaroğlu expressed pride in the performance of his troops and the advanced, domestically produced systems they employed, wishing them continued success in their future endeavors.
Sources
Founder Dinis Guarda
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