Croatia lauds Turkey's Bayraktar TB2 drones as more units reinforce military forces
In a significant move to bolster its national security and defense capacity, Croatia has received six Bayraktar TB2 armed drones from Turkey. This delivery marks a new era for the Croatian army, as these drones are expected to bring new capabilities to combat operations, border surveillance, reconnaissance, and firefighting.
Manufactured by the Turkish defense company Baykar, the Bayraktar TB2 drones have proven their worth worldwide, logging a staggering 950,000 flight hours globally as of September 2024. The drones have also set multiple records, including a national altitude record of 27,030 feet and an endurance record of more than 27 hours under harsh conditions.
The Bayraktar TB2 drone first saw action in 2014 when it was deployed by the Turkish armed forces. Since then, it has become the world's longest-serving aviation platform for Turkey, and it is now in service with six NATO members and four EU countries.
The TB2 drone is equipped with modern weaponry and has demonstrated its versatility, most notably in May 2024 when it became the first armed drone in the world to autonomously perform a barrel roll.
The company behind the Bayraktar TB2 drones, Baykar, is a leading player in the global drone market. Selcuk Bayraktar, Chairman of Baykar, stated that the company exports drones to 37 countries, accounting for 60% of the global drone exports. Moreover, 90% of Baykar's revenue is generated from international sales.
The drones manufactured by Baykar boast a 93% localization rate, a testament to the company's commitment to domestic production. This delivery to Croatia is a significant contribution to strengthening Croatia's national security and defense capacity.
Ivan Anusic, Croatia's defense minister, praised the drones after their delivery, highlighting their contribution to Croatia's national security. Anusic wrote about this contribution in detail, emphasising the drones' potential to enhance Croatia's defense capacity.
In November 2024, Croatia signed an agreement with Turkish defense manufacturer Baykar for the export of TB2s. This agreement marks a strategic partnership between the two countries, with potential for further cooperation in the future.
With Türkiye emerging as the world's top drone exporter, controlling 65% of the global market, this partnership is a significant step for Croatia in modernizing its defense capabilities. The Bayraktar TB2 drones are set to play a crucial role in Croatia's defense strategy, ensuring a more secure future for the nation.
