Turkey's new combat drone could reshape the balance with Greece
According to a report by the Greek Reporter, introducing the Bayraktar TB3, a new Turkish combat drone, could disrupt the power balance between Ankara and Athens. Greek defence ministry officials have voiced concerns, indicating that this technological advancement might significantly impact the regional dynamics.
The Bayraktar TB3, developed by the Baykar corporation, represents an upgrade from the renowned TB2 drone, boasting numerous improvements and enhanced capabilities. Notably, the TB3, which completed its inaugural flight towards the end of 2023, is set to operate from the TCG Anadolu (L-400), the Turkish fleet's flagship, following its initial operational capability achievement.
A distinguishing feature of the TB3 is its distinction as the world's first combat drone capable of executing takeoffs and landings on ships equipped with short takeoff decks. Turkish authorities view this capability, along with the drone's ability to be operated from significant distances, as a potential game-changer in air combat operations.
Turkey's investment in drone technology
The Greek Reporter highlights Turkey's substantial investments in developing and exporting its drone fleet, particularly emphasizing the Bayraktar TB2 and Anka-S models. These drones have proven to be pivotal in aerial attack strategies and intelligence gathering on the battlefield, playing critical roles in Turkish military initiatives in the Middle East and the Azerbaijan-Armenia conflict.
Greece's potential response: aiming for an "Iron Dome"
In light of Turkey's expanding drone capabilities, Nikos Dendias, the Greek Minister of Defense, has suggested that Greece consider establishing an air defence system akin to Israel's Iron Dome. Greece currently employs two types of air defence mechanisms: one designed to counteract enemy aircraft, ballistic missiles, and rockets through a combination of interceptor aircraft and missile systems like the S-300, Patriot, HAWK, and Crotale. The second focuses on drone defence, employing jamming techniques to disrupt their guidance systems. Plans are underway to evolve this system into a more aggressive "hard kill" approach, enabling enemy drones' direct engagement and neutralization.
Furthermore, Minister Dendias disclosed plans for Greece to enhance its naval strength by acquiring new ships, underscoring the nation's commitment to bolstering its defence capabilities in response to emerging threats.
