SRUAV-Weaponised vs Bayraktar TB2: A Detailed Comparison of India’s and Turkey’s Armed Drones

The evolution of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has significantly transformed modern warfare, offering enhanced surveillance and precision strike capabilities. Two notable UAVs in this domain are India's SRUAV-Weaponised Rustom-1 and Turkey's Bayraktar TB2. This article provides a detailed comparison of their specifications, capabilities, and cost.

Design and Dimensions

• Rustom-1: Developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Rustom-1 is a Short Range Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (SR-RPAS) with an all-composite structure. It has a wingspan of 7.9 meters, a length of 5.12 meters, and a height of 2.4 meters. The empty weight is approximately 720 kg, with a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) around 800 kg

• Bayraktar TB2: Produced by Turkey's Baykar company, the Bayraktar TB2 features a wingspan of 12 meters, a length of 6.5 meters, and a height of 2.2 meters. It has an empty weight of 500 kg and an MTOW of 650 kg

Performance

• Rustom-1: The Rustom-1 can reach a maximum speed of 225 km/h, with an operational range of 200 km. It operates at altitudes up to 20,000 feet and has demonstrated an endurance of 10 hours.

• Bayraktar TB2: The TB2 has a maximum speed between 70 to 120 knots (approximately 130 to 220 km/h) and a communication range exceeding 150 km. It boasts a service ceiling of 22,000 feet and an endurance exceeding 20 hours.

Payload and Armament

• Rustom-1: The SRUAV-Weaponised variant is expected to carry a payload of 95 kg, potentially including four Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs), possibly the NAG-MK2. This armament would enable it to engage armored targets effectively.

• Bayraktar TB2: The TB2 has a payload capacity of 150 kg and is equipped with four hardpoints capable of carrying laser-guided smart munitions, such as the MAM-L and MAM-C missiles, suitable for precision strikes against various targets.

Operational Capabilities

• Rustom-1: Initially designed for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, the weaponized Rustom-1 expands its role to include offensive operations, enhancing its versatility on the battlefield.

• Bayraktar TB2: The TB2 is a combat-proven platform with autonomous takeoff and landing capabilities, utilized in various operational theaters for both ISR and strike missions. Its extended endurance and higher service ceiling provide a tactical advantage in sustained operations.

Cost Considerations

• Rustom-1: As an indigenous platform, the Rustom-1's development and production costs are not publicly disclosed. However, domestic production is expected to reduce procurement and maintenance expenses compared to imported systems.

• Bayraktar TB2: The unit cost of the TB2 varies based on configuration and quantity. Open sources indicate prices ranging from $1 million to $5 million per unit. For instance, Romania's planned acquisition of 18 TB2 drones for $300 million suggests a unit cost of approximately $16.7 million, potentially including additional equipment and support services.

Conclusion

Both the SRUAV-Weaponised Rustom-1 and the Bayraktar TB2 offer distinct advantages tailored to their respective operational requirements. The Rustom-1's development reflects India's commitment to self-reliance in defense technology, providing a cost-effective solution with capabilities suited to regional needs. In contrast, the Bayraktar TB2's combat experience and extended endurance make it a formidable asset in various conflict scenarios. Decision-makers should consider mission-specific requirements, budget constraints, and strategic objectives when selecting between these UAV platforms.