Mali receives 5 Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones for counterterrorism.

According to Clash Report on January 4, 2024, Mali recently received a shipment of Turkish Bayraktar TB2 unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs). The delivery, which included a minimum of five units, took place at Modibo Keita International Airport, situated approximately 15 km to the south of Mali's capital, Bamako. A ceremony was conducted to commemorate the event, attended by Mali's interim leader, Colonel Assimi Goita.

Follow Air Recognition on Google News at this link

The Malian Armed Forces plan to employ these new Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones to strengthen their counterterrorism capabilities. (Picture source: Clash Report)

The Malian Armed Forces plan to employ these new drones to strengthen their counterterrorism capabilities. The Bayraktar TB2 is a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) developed by the Turkish company Baykar. As of January 2024, it has accumulated over 750,000 operational flight hours globally.

A noteworthy feature of the TB2 is its triple redundant avionic system, enabling it to conduct autonomous taxiing, take-off, landing, and cruise operations independently, without reliance on ground systems. The drone maintains an operational altitude of 18,000 feet and can remain airborne for a maximum of 27 hours. It possesses advanced navigation capabilities, which function even in the absence of GPS signals. The TB2 has a communication range of under 300 km, a maximum speed of 120 knots, and a maximum takeoff weight of 700 kg. The drone has a wingspan of 12 m and a maximum takeoff weight of 700 kg.

The Bayraktar TB2 is designed for various missions, including Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), as well as armed attack missions. It is capable of carrying various payloads, such as electro-optical/infrared sensors or AESA radar, as well as laser-guided smart munitions. It excels in precision target acquisition and engagement capabilities, utilizing its onboard payload.

With its payload capacity of 150 kg, the Bayraktar TB2 can be equipped with indigenous munitions like the Roketsan MAM-L and MAM-C, enhancing its precision strike and ISR capabilities. The Baykar Real-Time Imagery Transmission System (BGAM) provides real-time image transmission and processing capabilities, improving surveillance capabilities. To support mission monitoring and control, a ground control station complements the system.