Selçuk Bayraktar is a Turkish engineer, entrepreneur, and businessman, best known for his contributions to the development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), particularly the Bayraktar TB2. He was born in Istanbul in 1979. He received his undergraduate degree from Istanbul Technical University in electronics and communication engineering.

He continued his education in the United States, earning master’s degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). His research at MIT focused on unmanned aerial vehicles and robotics, setting the stage for his future endeavors.

Upon returning to Turkey, Bayraktar played a pivotal role in the establishment of Baykar, a defense and aerospace company founded by his father, Özdemir Bayraktar. He became the company’s Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and led the development of the Bayraktar TB2, a medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) UAV that has gained international recognition.

The Bayraktar TB2 has been widely used in various conflicts, including in Syria, Libya, and Nagorno-Karabakh, as well as by the Ukrainian military. Its effectiveness in these conflicts has significantly boosted its profile and attracted attention from militaries worldwide. The UAV is known for its relatively low cost, ease of operation, and its ability to conduct reconnaissance, surveillance, and precision strikes.

Beyond the TB2, Bayraktar has also been involved in the development of other UAV platforms, including the Bayraktar AKINCI, a more advanced high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) UAV. These innovations have positioned Baykar as a leading player in the global defense industry and have solidified Turkey’s position as a significant exporter of UAV technology.

Bayraktar’s work has been credited with transforming Turkey’s defense capabilities and reducing its reliance on foreign suppliers. He is often presented as a symbol of Turkish technological advancement and self-sufficiency. He is seen as a national hero by many in Turkey.

In addition to his engineering and business accomplishments, Bayraktar is also known for his philanthropic endeavors. He is involved in various educational and charitable initiatives in Turkey. In 2022, he was awarded the title of “Hero of Ukraine” by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for his contributions to Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

Selçuk Bayraktar is married to Sümeyye Erdoğan Bayraktar, the daughter of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. This connection to the political establishment has further amplified his profile in Turkey.

Bayraktar continues to be a driving force behind Baykar’s technological development, focusing on advanced UAV systems, artificial intelligence, and autonomous flight capabilities. His contributions have had a significant impact on the defense industry and have positioned Turkey as a key player in the global UAV market.