Baykar Dominates Global Military UAV Market with Over 50% Share

Istanbul, Turkey – Selçuk Bayraktar, a Turkish engineer and entrepreneur, has transformed his family's small machine shop into Baykar, a global leader in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), now commanding over 50% of the global military UAV market. The company's cost-effective and battle-proven drones, notably the Bayraktar TB2, have reshaped modern warfare and are exported to more than 35 countries worldwide. Bayraktar's journey from an MIT dropout to a national icon underscores Turkey's growing influence in the defense industry.

Bayraktar, whose father ran a small machine shop, pursued advanced studies in the United States, including at MIT, before returning to Turkey in 2006. This decision marked a pivotal moment, as he channeled his expertise into developing advanced drone technology, leveraging the family's industrial roots. The company's flagship Bayraktar TB2 drone has gained international recognition for its performance and affordability, often described as "1/10 the cost of similar US platforms," according to social media commentary.

The strategic impact of Baykar's drones has been evident in various conflicts, including those in Libya, Ukraine, and Azerbaijan, where they have demonstrated significant effectiveness. This operational success has propelled Baykar to a dominant position, securing exports to a diverse range of nations across Europe, Africa, and Asia. The widespread adoption of these drones highlights a shift in military procurement and operational strategies globally.

Selçuk Bayraktar's profile has risen significantly, not only due to his company's success but also through his marriage to Sümeyye ErdoğAn, the daughter of Turkish President Recep Tayyip ErdoğAn. This connection has further solidified his status as a prominent figure within Turkey's industrial and political landscape. The company continues to innovate, with new platforms like the Akıncı combat drone and the Kızılelma stealth unmanned fighter jet further expanding its capabilities and market reach.