Leonardo Proposes Payloads for Baykar UASs via LBA Systems Joint Venture

Integration of Advanced Payloads in Baykar Unmanned Aircraft Systems at IDEF 2025

Overview of the Initiative

At the International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF) 2025, held in Istanbul from July 22 to 27, Leonardo, through its joint venture with Baykar known as LBA Systems, unveiled a range of proposed payloads designed for Baykar’s unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). This partnership signals a significant evolution in the capabilities of these advanced platforms.

Showcased Technologies

During the exhibition, LBA Systems presented various sophisticated payloads intended for integration with both the Bayraktar TB2 and the Akıncı UAS. Key highlights included:

• LEOSS Gyrostabilised Electro-Optical Turret: Demonstrated on the Bayraktar TB2, this system enhances targeting precision.
• BriteStorm Jammer and SWave Airborne SDR SRT-800: Additional electronic countermeasure systems were showcased on the TB2, further augmenting its operational versatility.
• Gabbiano T-Soul Radar: An innovative surveillance radar offering 360º coverage, pivotal for advanced ISR and ISTAR missions.
• Osprey 20/30 AESA Surveillance Radar: Revolutionary in detecting and tracking multiple targets simultaneously.

Other notable proposed technologies include SAGE electronic support measures designed for RF ISR missions, and the Ultra Light Sonics Enhanced System (ULISSES) aimed at anti-submarine warfare operations.

Capabilities of Akıncı UAS

The Akıncı UAS, an advanced platform also demonstrated at the fair, featured:

• Grifo-E Fire-Control Radar: This E-Scan pulse-Doppler radar enhances target acquisition and tracking capabilities.
• SDR SRT-800 and IFF 428 Transponder: Integrated into the rear fuselage, these systems improve situational awareness and friend-or-foe identification.
• Additional Payload Proposals:
  • Osprey 55/30 and Seaspray 7500 multimode AESA radars for versatile reconnaissance.
  • Gabbiano T-Soul and SAGE for enhanced intelligence collection.
  • Skyward advanced infrared search-and-track (IRST) systems for tracking individual and multiple targets.
  • A Multiple Aperture Infrared (MAIR)-A missile warning system, critical for enhancing survivability.

Future Integration with Kızılelma UCAS

A representative from LBA emphasized that the ongoing integration of these advanced systems into the TB2 and Akıncı platforms is part of a larger strategy to equip the Kızılelma unmanned combat aircraft system (UCAS) with similar capabilities. This forward-looking approach demonstrates the commitment to enhancing operational effectiveness across all Baykar platforms.

The adoption of such advanced technologies not only enhances mission versatility but also positions Baykar at the forefront of unmanned aerial capabilities on the global defense landscape. The systems presented at IDEF 2025 are indicative of a broader trend towards increasing the sophistication and integration of unmanned systems in modern warfare.