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A Bayraktar TB2T-AI combat drone, which gained widespread recognition for its usage in Ukraine, has set a new altitude record in its class, reaching 40,023 feet.
The test took place in Ankara, Turkey, during the High Altitude System Identification and Performance Test on 24th August.
Video released by Baykar shows the drone climbing steadily into clear skies as its instruments register the record-breaking altitude, higher than what small planes fly at.
The footage captures the TB2T-AI in flight, with its onboard systems visibly active during the ascent.
Baykar said the new-generation drone is equipped with advanced artificial intelligence and a turbo engine.
The Turkish company added that the TB2T-AI was developed nationally and originally by Baykar.
During the early days of Russia’s 2022 invasion, Ukrainian forces frequently used Bayraktar TB2 drones to destroy Russian armoured convoys, air defences, and artillery systems. Video of these strikes went viral, boosting morale and elevating the drone's profile worldwide.
The drone became a folk hero in Ukraine, where a patriotic song titled Bayraktar was released in March 2022 and widely shared as a symbol of resistance.
Following Ukraine’s use of the TB2, Baykar’s CEO said the "whole world is a customer." The company reported a surge in demand so strong that manufacturers faced a three-year backlog.
Exports expanded rapidly, and by late 2022 the TB2 was being operated by 31 countries. Baykar said drone sales formed a large portion of its revenue.
The new TB2T-AI has higher climbing capabilities and can remain at high altitudes for longer periods compared with current drones.
It is capable of flying at speeds above 160 knots (300 km/h) and has been designed to carry out longer and more effective missions with an increased take-off weight and greater payload capacity.
The TB2T-AI has three new artificial intelligence computers, giving it advanced autonomous air combat functions.
It can perform visual terrain-based navigation even in challenging electronic warfare environments, recognising terrain through visual navigation to determine its direction.
In emergencies during flight, the AI-supported systems enable the drone to return safely and automatically to base.
(Mike Leidig / newsX)
Byline Journalist: Mike Leidig
Byline Sub editor: Simona Kitanovska
Byline Spotter: Mike Leidig
Byline Commisioning Editor: Mike Leidig
Byline Senior Writer: Mike Leidig
Byline Picture Editor: Zorica Stojkovik
Byline Copychecker: Angela Trajkovska
Byline Illustrator: Angela Trajkovska
Byline News Editor: Mike Leidig
Geography: Turkey
Subject: Military, Military Weapons, Aerial, Drones
T4 Editor Story Rating: 5
T4 Editor Pic/Vid rating: 7
T4 Total rating: 6
