Turkey’s first jet-powered unmanned combat aircraft, Bayraktar Kızılelma, marks the beginning of a new era for the nation’s defense industry.
Developed by Baykar and named after the legendary “Kızılelma” ideal in Turkish mythology, this advanced aerial platform stands out not only for its technical prowess but also as a tangible embodiment of Turkey’s long-term aerospace vision. Designed for both the Turkish Air Force and the Turkish Navy, the MIUS Kızılelma Unmanned Combat Aircraft elevates Turkey into an elite league with its ability to take off from short-runway naval platforms.
Jet-Powered Silent Strength
With a low radar cross-section body design, AESA radar integration, and exceptional maneuverability, Bayraktar Kızılelma brings the air combat concept of the future into today. The aircraft is capable of fully autonomous takeoff and landing, and can operate both within and beyond line-of-sight communication ranges.
The first prototype of the MIUS Kızılelma Unmanned Combat Aircraft successfully completed its maiden flight on December 14, 2022—earlier than expected. This historic milestone marked Turkey’s formal entry into the global arena of jet-powered UCAV manufacturing.
Project Evolution
Conceptual work for the MIUS (Combat Unmanned Aircraft System) project began in 2013. Initial designs and specifications were made public in 2021, followed by the official announcement of the “Kızılelma” name in March 2022. During this phase, engine procurement agreements were signed with Ukraine-based Ivchenko-Progress, allowing the MIUS Kızılelma Unmanned Combat Aircraft to be optimized for various speed and maneuverability profiles.
The first prototypes featured AI-25TLT turbofan engines for subsonic speeds, while more advanced variants—Kızılelma-B and Kızılelma-C—are equipped with AI-322F engines capable of supersonic flight. The twin-engine Kızılelma-C variant is particularly notable for its enhanced thrust and payload capacity.
Testing and Serial Production
The initial engine integration test was successfully conducted in September 2022, followed by a comprehensive test campaign throughout 2023. These tests included internal landing gear flights, high-altitude trials, high-speed maneuvers, and multiple takeoff-landing sequences.
By October 2024, the project transitioned to serial production. Baykar announced its goal to manufacture at least 10 units of the MIUS Kızılelma Unmanned Combat Aircraft by 2026—an ambitious yet attainable objective that will significantly expand Turkey’s UCAV fleet in the near term.
Ready for Carrier Operations on TCG Anadolu
Kızılelma has been specifically engineered for launch and recovery operations aboard TCG Anadolu, Turkey’s flagship amphibious assault ship. This capability places it among the rare few UCAVs globally that can operate from naval platforms without requiring catapult systems. The airframe and landing gear have been optimized for maritime missions.
Stealth and Strike Power Combined
The MIUS Kızılelma Unmanned Combat Aircraft features an AESA radar and advanced electronic warfare systems, granting it high situational awareness in contested airspace. Its internal weapon bays help minimize radar signature while allowing it to carry a diverse payload.
The aircraft is compatible with a wide range of Turkish-made munitions, including air-to-air missiles, cruise missiles, smart bombs, and electronic warfare payloads. Its ability to deploy weapons like Kuzgun, Bozdoğan, Gökdoğan, SOM, MAM-L, and Çakır makes Kızılelma a highly versatile and formidable platform against land, sea, and aerial threats.
Technical Specifications (Kızılelma-A)
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 14.7 m |
| Wingspan | 10 m |
| Height | 3.3 m |
| Max Takeoff Weight | 5,987 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 1,500 kg |
| Service Ceiling | 14,000 m |
| Operational Altitude | 11,000 m |
| Maximum Speed | 1,100 km/h (0.9 Mach) |
| Cruise Speed | 735 km/h (0.6 Mach) |
| Endurance | 5–6 hours |
| Combat Range | 930 km |
The MIUS Kızılelma Unmanned Combat Aircraft has become a symbol of Turkish engineering excellence and strategic foresight. Poised to serve as a “loyal wingman” in future battlespaces, it redefines the scope and capability of Turkey’s aerial defense doctrine.
