Poland is utilizing Bayraktar TB2 drones, developed by Baykar, in response to the severe flooding that has struck the country.
This disaster has particularly impacted the town of Stronie Slaskie and the Powodz region, causing extensive damage to infrastructure, including power systems. Experts estimate the damage to be around 250 million euros ($278.7 million).
Use of TB2 drones: According to Gen. Marek Sokolowski, commander of the Polish Land Forces, Bayraktar TB2 drones have been actively flying over the affected areas for about 12 hours. These drones are playing a crucial role in search and rescue operations, helping to locate and assist those affected by the flooding.
Additional resources: Alongside the drones, Poland has also deployed 19 helicopters to support the rescue efforts, providing a comprehensive response to the disaster.
A Bayraktar TB2 unmanned combat aerial vehicle is seen during a demonstration flight at Teknofest aerospace and technology festival in Baku, Azerbaijan May 27, 2022. (Reuters Photo)
Bayraktar TB2
Export to Poland: The country began using Bayraktar TB2 drones in 2022. Key figures such as Haluk Gorgun, head of the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB), and Haluk Bayraktar, general manager of Baykar, attended the delivery ceremony of the latest batch of these drones in 2024. These drones operate at Poland's 12th UAV Base.
Drone performance and features: Designed for reconnaissance and intelligence gathering, the Bayraktar TB2 is a tactical UAV. It is known for its
Flight duration: Up to 27 hours
Altitude capability: Operates at up to 25,000 feet
Operational altitude: Effective up to 16,000 feet
Payload capacity: Can carry up to 145 kg
Key capabilities:
Automated operations: The TB2 can perform fully automated takeoffs, landings, and navigation, thanks to its advanced avionics and sensor systems.
Precision targeting: Equipped with a laser target designator, the TB2 can accurately engage targets and carry up to four smart munitions.
Civil safety: Designed to minimize collateral damage, the TB2 focuses on rapid and precise targeting to ensure civilian safety.
Poland deploys Türkiye
Bayraktar TB2 drone stands near the logo of Baykar Turkish defense company inside a hall of 30th International Defence Industry Exhibition in Kielce, Poland, Sept. 5, 2022. (Reuters Photo)
Technical details:
Flight specifications:
Maximum altitude: 25,000 feet
Operational altitude: 16,000 feet
Speed range: 70 to 120 knots
Maximum takeoff weight: 700 kilograms
Endurance: More than 20 hours of flight time
Video transfer system: Baykar’s BGAM system provides real-time, high-definition video streaming with minimal delay. The system automatically archives footage in 30-minute segments, enabling users to add notes and tags for effortless retrieval and secure viewing.
Mobile control station: This mobile unit enables Bayraktar TB2 drones to be controlled in remote areas. It includes strong communication antennas and a hydraulic platform for extending the operational range and ensuring a quick, secure setup.
The deployment of Bayraktar TB2 drones underscores their value in both military and humanitarian roles. Poland's use of these UAVs to address the recent flooding demonstrates their effectiveness in critical situations, highlighting the TB2's advanced technology and versatility in modern operations.
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