Kuwait Enters Groundbreaking Deal with Turkey for Bayraktar TB2 Drone Acquisition

Kuwait has formalized an agreement with Ankara to acquire Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones, marking a strategic step to strengthen its defense systems.

The contract, valued at $367 million, was revealed in a press release issued by the Kuwaiti armed forces.

The statement detailed that the agreement for the delivery of Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial systems was directly established between the Kuwaiti Ministry of Defense and the Turkish authorities, with no third parties involved. The overall amount of the contract has been confirmed at $367 million.

Though the announcement did not specify the precise quantity of drones Kuwait will receive or the timeline for delivery, it emphasized the demonstrated effectiveness of the Bayraktar TB2 drone, which has showcased its skills in Libya, Azerbaijan, and Ukraine.

In a declaration released in January, Baykar, the creator of the Bayraktar TB2, had reported a $370 million agreement with the Kuwaiti Ministry of Defense for the sale of these UAVs. However, specific information about the number of units and delivery timelines was not provided at that moment.

The Kuwaiti announcement clarified that the contract includes the supply of support equipment and ground testing, logistical upkeep, and training for pilots and technicians from the local workforce, as well as a commitment to spare parts availability throughout the duration of the agreement. Furthermore, it includes the development of a simulation system and the provision of technical assistance for a span of three years.

The agreement also incorporates the establishment of specialized facilities to support these drones, which will feature weaponry, electronic warfare gear, and mobile ground control units.

Highlighting its aim to reinforce the defense capabilities of the Kuwaiti armed forces, the statement emphasized the advanced technical features of the Bayraktar TB2 drones. These include reconnaissance, targeting, and support functions for military operations, as well as intelligence collection. The drones are designed to carry a range of munitions, including laser-guided missiles and precision bombs.

Measuring 6.5 meters in length, the Bayraktar TB2 is roughly half the weight of its American equivalent, the Reaper. It is capable of carrying up to four laser-guided munitions.

Kuwait’s initiative to procure these drones follows the examples set by several allied and neighboring nations, including various Gulf Cooperation Council members, who have already acquired the Bayraktar TB2 drones to elevate their defense capabilities.