Italy’s navy is considering acquiring Türkiye’s domestically produced Bayraktar TB3 armed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), in a step that could mark a significant expansion of European naval drone capabilities.
According to a report by Middle East Eye, Italian Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Giuseppe Berutti Bergotto told parliament that Rome is exploring the procurement of advanced unmanned systems, with particular interest in shipborne drones.
Bergotto highlighted the Bayraktar TB3, developed by Turkish defense company Baykar, after showcasing footage of the UAV successfully taking off from Türkiye’s amphibious assault ship TCG Anadolu.
He indicated that the system could be acquired through cooperation with Italian defense giant Leonardo and integrated into Italy’s flagship aircraft carrier, ITS Cavour.
Italy’s interest reflects a broader European push to strengthen unmanned capabilities at sea.
The Cavour, like the TCG Anadolu, is a landing helicopter dock designed to operate aircraft such as the F-35B and military helicopters. Integrating drones like the TB3 would expand its operational flexibility, particularly in surveillance and strike missions.
Defense analyst Riccardo Gasco said the TB3 could provide a rapid solution to a capability gap long discussed but not yet addressed by European navies.
“Europe has been debating shipborne unmanned systems for years but has yet to field an operational solution,” Gasco noted. “Türkiye already has a working system, and with an Italian industrial partner, it is now accessible.”
