Unmanned aerial combat vehicle, Kizilelma, to commence mass production with estimated delivery in 2026.
The Kizilelma, Turkey's first domestically produced multi-purpose unmanned combat aircraft (UCAV), is now on the production line, with continuous improvements being made to the platform. Developed by Baykar, the Kizilelma is expected to enter service with the Turkish Armed Forces in 2026.
The aircraft is a jet-powered, carrier-capable fighter drone equipped with advanced features such as low radar cross-section (stealth), AESA radar, satellite control, and fully autonomous takeoff and landing. It uses a Ukrainian AI-322F turbofan engine modified for supersonic speed and high maneuverability.
Baykar Chairman Selcuk Bayraktar emphasized that the real added value for Baykar lies in software and advanced autonomy systems. He argued that pursuing systems like F-35s and Eurofighters would leave Turkey technologically behind in the field of smart, robotic drones. Instead, Bayraktar highlighted Turkey's transformation in aerospace capabilities and its rise to global leadership in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology.
The Kizilelma is planned to operate from Turkey’s new UAV carrier and is under consideration as a "loyal wingman" drone for future 6th-generation fighter jet programs like the GCAP/Tempest involving the UK, Japan, and Italy.
Bayraktar also revealed that Kizilelma can be produced at significantly lower costs compared to manned combat aircraft, with a potential cost savings of 5 to 30 times. The absence of a pilot in the Kizilelma brings numerous advantages, including easier acceptance of operational risks and no need for expensive safety systems in the production process.
The radar developed by Aselsan and the electro-optical systems developed by Baykar carry value far beyond the engine. Baykar is also developing its own engine for Akinci and Kizilelma.
The Kizilelma aircraft is a complex aircraft, with all components manufactured domestically in Turkey. Bayraktar detailed ongoing efforts to develop jet engines for various platforms, including the national combat aircraft.
Significantly, Kizilelma represents a major milestone for Turkey’s defense and aerospace industry, showcasing the country’s rise to global leadership in drone technology. Turkey is reported to hold about 65% of the global UAV market, and Kizilelma exemplifies the move from reconnaissance to fully autonomous and lethal unmanned combat platforms.
In the future, Bayraktar sees the world's aviation moving towards swarms of unmanned aerial vehicles operating in coordination. The success of the Bayraktar TB3, the world's first aircraft capable of short runway takeoff and landing operations, has already demonstrated Turkey's prowess in this field.
The world's first war won with UAVs was won by Turkish armies, according to Bayraktar, further underscoring Turkey's leading role in the development and deployment of advanced UAV technology.
[1] Turkish Ministry of National Defence [2] Baykar Technologies [3] Aselsan [4] TUSAS Engine Industries (TEI)
- Baykar Technologies, a key player in Turkey's aerospace industry, is focusing on software and advanced autonomy systems for projects like the Kizilelma, Turkey's first domestically produced multi-purpose unmanned combat aircraft, to ensure global leadership in smart, robotic drone technology.
- Aselsan, another Turkish company, is contributing value far beyond the engine by developing advanced radar systems for the Kizilelma and other aerospace projects in Turkey, showcasing the country's growth in science and technology sectors.
