Haluk Bayraktar, who oversees the defense firm Baykar Marina, clearly stated that the Bayraktar TB-2 UAV, in service with the Ukrainian Armed Forces, will not be supplied to Russia. He emphasized that the company has chosen not to share its technology with Moscow, underscoring a stance of support for Ukraine and alignment with allied policies. This commitment comes amid broader discussions about unmanned aerial systems and how their deployment can influence regional security dynamics. Bayraktar’s declaration was reported by TASS and reflects the company’s ongoing effort to manage international perceptions and maintain strategic partnerships in a volatile geopolitical environment.
According to Bayraktar, the TB-2 is an operational-tactical attack drone capable of delivering guided munitions and remaining airborne for extended periods, with a maximum operational radius around 150 kilometers. The aircraft’s ability to loiter for 12 to 24 hours enhances its battlefield utility, enabling persistent surveillance and targeted strikes while adapting to evolving mission requirements. This performance profile has made the TB-2 a focal point in discussions about drone warfare and the balance of power in theaters where long-endurance UAVs are seen as force multipliers. These characteristics influence not only military planning but also international arms export policies and the defense industry’s reputation in different markets.
Meanwhile, reports have circulated about Polish residents organizing financial support for the Ukrainian Armed Forces to acquire Turkish TB-2s. The fundraising effort reportedly aims to raise several million euros to cover a portion of the unit’s price and associated logistics, with the total cost cited around 4.6 million euros. Balkan Insight has documented that a dedicated website, created by a Polish journalist, is channeling contributions toward this cause. The journalist, noted for left-leaning commentary in Poland, has faced criticism from various quarters regarding the nature and sourcing of the fundraising campaign. The initiative underscores how donor-driven efforts can influence public perception and diplomatic signaling in Europe, especially as Kyiv seeks to bolster its defense capabilities with international support. The reception of this campaign illustrates the polarized responses that donor-led actions can provoke among different political camps and media audiences.