BOYGA

BOYGA is a tactical unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system featuring a rotating wing structure and the capability to carry and precisely deliver mortar munitions. Developed by STM Defense Technologies Engineering and Trade Inc. using Türkiye’s indigenous and national capabilities, the system was designed in accordance with the requirements of the Turkish Armed Forces and entered active inventory in 2022. BOYGA was specifically developed for effective use in asymmetric warfare environments, counter-terrorism operations, and cross-border missions.

Design and Development

The development of BOYGA was driven by the need for a tactical-level aerial platform with high field usability, easy portability, and the ability to deliver guided munitions. The system can carry 81 mm mortar munitions and deploy them onto targets during missions using ballistic prediction algorithms. The munition system integration was carried out in collaboration with Machine and Chemical Industry Corporation (MKE).

Technical Specifications

Imaging and Communication

BOYGA is equipped with an HD 720p imaging system integrated into a two-axis gimbal. It features a 10x optical zoom capability. The communication system operating in the C-band ensures data transmission within an 8 km range and provides secure communication using AES-128 encryption.

Ground Control Station (GCS)

BOYGA is operated via a portable ground control station. Mission planning and control are conducted through a 10.1 inch touchscreen tablet. The GCS has an operational duration of 2 hours.

Operational Use and Export

BOYGA has drawn attention for its performance in the field and has successfully completed missions in international exercises such as EFES-2024. The system, actively used by the Turkish Armed Forces, has been optimized for diverse geographical and operational conditions. BOYGA’s first export was made in 2024 to a country in Africa, demonstrating Türkiye’s international competitiveness in the field of unmanned systems.

Strategic Significance

While classified as a tactical UAV, BOYGA transcends traditional reconnaissance and surveillance roles through its munition delivery capability, emerging as a platform capable of direct battlefield impact. By enabling munition delivery from high altitudes without requiring direct target identification, the system creates tactical surprise on the battlefield, enhancing operational effectiveness.