Greece Develops ARCHYTAS II Drone, A Rival To Turkey's Bayraktar
ATHENS – The Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI) has announced the development of ARCHYTAS II, a domestically produced unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) poised to compete with Turkey’s Bayraktar TB2. The new drone boasts vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capabilities, a feature distinguishing it from its Turkish counterpart.
ARCHYTAS II represents a significant leap from the initial ARCHYTAS prototype unveiled at the DEFEA 2023 defense exhibition. The program faced setbacks and near cancellation before being revitalized and redesigned to meet the evolving needs of modern warfare.
According to HAI, the UAV has a wingspan of 6 meters and a length of 4 meters, capable of carrying a 30-kilogram payload, which could include weapons like bombs, mortars, and rockets. Eight electric motors enable VTOL operation, transitioning to horizontal flight powered by a thermal engine, offering an estimated nine-hour endurance. The drone is designed to integrate seamlessly with ground control centers for both defensive and offensive missions.
The development timeline is particularly impressive. A functional prototype, known as an “iron bird,” was developed in just three years, compared to the decade-long development of the Bayraktar. Furthermore, HAI claims the entire ARCHYTAS program cost is equivalent to a single day of operating costs for the Turkish Bayraktar fleet, emphasizing the program’s cost-effectiveness.
The project has received funding approval from the Hellenic Company for Investments and Development (ELKAK) and the Supreme Air Council (SAGE), with additional support from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). Currently, the drone is undergoing flight testing and autopilot calibration, with the final prototype expected to be presented at the Thessaloniki International Fair. Both the aircraft and HAI’s design and production processes are undergoing certification.
The Hellenic Air Force has reportedly expressed interest in an initial order of 25 units, with potential delivery of the first two drones by the end of 2025 if a contract is finalized in September. HAI estimates a production capacity of two units per month, scalable to meet future demand.
The development of ARCHYTAS II marks a significant step towards greater self-reliance for the Greek Armed Forces, potentially reducing dependence on foreign suppliers for advanced defense systems. It also positions Greece as a player in the growing UAV market, offering a competitive alternative to established platforms like the Bayraktar TB2. The symbolic image released by “Realnews” depicting ARCHYTAS II targeting a Bayraktar underscores the competitive spirit driving this development.
