French aerospace and defense company Safran and Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar have signed a cooperation agreement aimed at expanding collaboration in unmanned aerial systems, with a focus on sensors, navigation technologies, and precision-guided weapon integration.
Under the partnership, the two companies will jointly develop integrated drone solutions combining electro-optical payloads, positioning and navigation systems, and guided strike capabilities for unmanned platforms and air-to-ground missions.
As part of the agreement, Baykar’s Bayraktar TB2 drones will be equipped with Safran’s Euroflir electro-optical targeting system to improve surveillance, reconnaissance, and target acquisition performance.
The cooperation also reflects broader industrial collaboration between the companies, including potential joint initiatives in technology development, operational integration, and international market expansion. According to both firms, the deal supports Baykar’s strategy of increasing cooperation with Western defense subsystem suppliers while giving Safran access to one of the world’s most widely exported tactical drone platforms.
Since the beginning of the year, Safran has expanded its role in guided weapon technologies through several strategic partnerships. In collaboration with MBDA, the company recently completed a live-fire demonstration of the THUNDART guided rocket in France using its modular air-to-ground guidance kit. Safran has also partnered with EDGE Group to jointly develop export-focused smart weapon systems.
Meanwhile, Baykar has continued strengthening its strike capabilities and global weapons integration efforts. The company recently signed an agreement with EDGE Group to integrate Al Tariq precision-guided munitions onto the Bayraktar Akıncı drone and introduced Mizrak, a new long-range loitering munition intended for autonomous strike operations.
