The UAV Showcase of IDEF 2025

Held at the Istanbul Expo Center from July 22–27, the 17th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF 2025) transformed into a vision statement for the skies, especially with its strong focus on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs/UCAVs). With a wide spectrum ranging from production-ready prototypes to concept models, electronic warfare solutions to tactical mini UAVs, the fair reinforced Türkiye’s leadership ambition in this rapidly advancing field.

Baykar Technologies: Kızılelma, TB3, and the Next Phase of Air Dominance

As expected, Baykar’s booth drew the most attention from visitors once again.

• Bayraktar Kızılelma S1: Displayed for the first time in its serial production-ready form, the Kızılelma S1 stood out with its low radar visibility and AI-supported autonomous systems.

• Bayraktar TB3: Notable for its foldable wings, carrier-based takeoff and landing capabilities, and long-range ISR functionality.

• Bayraktar Kalkan: A new UCAV concept integrated with advanced electro-optics, optimized for urban combat scenarios.

• Akıncı B: Introduced with ASELSAN’s FLIR systems, the Akıncı B stood out among multi-weapon capable platforms.

Baykar also showcased its increasing operational presence in Europe through partnerships with Piaggio Aerospace and an MoU with Leonardo in the field of LBA systems.

Maxwell Innovations: Deep Waves in the EW Arena with Barracuda

Developed in collaboration with Alfasis, the Barracuda VTOL UAV was one of the most innovative unmanned platforms featured at IDEF 2025.

• VTOL capability enables operations from both land and naval platforms.

• Designed for specialized missions such as electronic warfare and counter-system suppression.

• Despite its compact structure, it supports multiple sensors and is equipped with software infrastructure for swarm operations.

InnoVita Technologies: The JUNNO Paramotor UAV Family

InnoVita Technologies made its mark at IDEF 2025 with the unveiling of its JUNNO paramotor UAV series.

Solid Aero: Introducing TOYDU, KARAGUN, and Talay

Solid Aero unveiled a family of mini tactical UAVs for the first time:

• TOYDU: A micro UAV optimized for maritime operations, with a low radar signature and real-time reconnaissance capabilities.

• KARAGUN: A compact, hand-launched FPV drone designed for covert offensive operations.

• Talay WIG UAV: A rare wing-in-ground effect vehicle capable of flying 2–3 meters above water, offering unique maritime operational capabilities.

  

Titra Technologies: Alpin 2 and Seyyah Navigation System

• Alpin 2: A new-generation rotor-wing tactical UAV capable of carrying up to 550 kg payload with a flight endurance of 7 hours.

• Seyyah: An AI-powered visual navigation system for GPS-denied environments, providing strategic advantage in electronically jammed zones.

  

STM: FPV Kamikaze and Tactical VTOL Platforms

• KARGU FPV: A next-gen loitering munition drone equipped with an armor-piercing warhead, designed for stealthy infiltration.

• New Tactical VTOL UAV: Engineered for ISR and logistics missions, capable of taking off and landing in confined areas.

  

ALTINAY / DASAL – Logistics and Mission-Specific Cargo UAV Systems

• PUHU C100: Making its debut at IDEF 2025, this VTOL cargo UAV can carry up to 100 kg of payload. It offers a strategic advantage in military and humanitarian operations by enabling aerial delivery without landing, thanks to a hook-release system, especially in mountainous or hard-to-reach areas. With a 90-minute endurance, it supports extended mission cycles.

• DELI 80 / DELI 100: Previously showcased models, now updated for IDEF 2025. DELI 80 is tailored for short-range missions with an 80 kg capacity, while DELI 100 features greater range and payload for mid-to-long-range logistics. Enhanced autonomy features include satellite communication modules and in-flight route updates.

  

IDEF 2025 did more than just highlight Türkiye’s growing capability in unmanned aerial systems; it also sent a strong message to global markets. With increasing export potential, technological depth, and modular flexibility, Türkiye is solidifying its role as a strategic player in the UAV/UCAV space.

The UAV Showcase at IDEF 2025 served not only as a product launch platform but also as a stage for announcing paradigm shifts in drone technology. Looking ahead, the sector is expected to accelerate in both civilian and military domains. Türkiye continues to position itself not just as a supplier, but as a developer, strategist, and leader in the unmanned systems domain.