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Overview

The Baykar Bayraktar TB2, also known as the TB-2 or Turkish Barbecue, is an unmanned military combat drone manufactured by Turkish company Baykar Defense. Though it was already deployed into service during other conflicts, being praised for its achievements and effectiveness, it started gaining notable online attention during the 2022 Russian Invasion of Ukraine, with footage of the drones destroying Russian convoys going viral on social media. It is now one of many symbols of Ukrainian resistance against the Russian invaders.

Background

Ukraine already purchased Bayraktar TB2 drones from Turkish Company Baykar Defense as part of a military modernization program prior before being invaded by Russia. Since the invasion began, the Ukrainian military began posting footage online of the drone destroying Russian targets. Many were surprised at how effective the drones are, given that the drones are relatively cheap and low-tech compared to other drones. Even some Russian surface-to-air missile systems (which are meant to shoot the drones down) have been destroyed by the drones. Military analysts have stated that the success of the Bayraktar TB2 in Ukraine is due to Russia's failure to achieve air superiority.

Various Examples

Video compilation of the drone successfully destroying Russian targets:

A patriotic war song for the Bayraktar TB2 drone created The Ukrainian Ground Forces: