Bayraktar Kızılelma: Turkey’s First Stealth Jet-Powered UCAV Explained
Discover Bayraktar Kızılelma, Turkey’s stealthy next-gen jet-powered UCAV, designed for carrier-based operations and air superiority missions.
What Is Bayraktar Kızılelma?
Bayraktar Kızılelma is Turkey’s first stealth, jet-powered unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), developed by leading defense firm Baykar. Designed for air-to-air combat, deep strike, and naval operations, Kızılelma marks a major milestone in the evolution of Turkish drone capabilities.
Key Features of Bayraktar Kızılelma
1. Stealth & Jet Power
Kızılelma features a low-observable (stealth) design and is powered by a turbofan engine, enabling high speed performance with reduced radar visibility.
2. High Payload Capacity
The UCAV offers a maximum payload capacity of 1,500 kg, supporting a variety of munitions including laser-guided bombs, air-to-air missiles, and long-range cruise missiles.
3. Autonomous Operations
It is capable of fully autonomous taxi, takeoff, landing, and cruise, with integrated AI-based mission control systems.
4. Carrier Compatibility
Designed to operate from short-runway aircraft carriers such as Turkey’s TCG Anadolu, giving it strategic naval versatility.
5. AESA Radar and Sensor Suite
Equipped with an advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, Electro-Optical Targeting System, and Infrared Search and Track capabilities for superior situational awareness.
Why Kızılelma Is a Game-Changer in Drone Warfare
- Fifth-generation stealth combat drone capability
- Carrier-compatible for naval deployment
- Fully autonomous with AI-based combat systems
- High speed and maneuverability in contested airspace
- Advanced radar and targeting systems
Technical Specifications (Quick Overview)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Maximum Takeoff Weight | 8,500 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 1,500 kg |
| Cruise Speed | 0.6 Mach |
| Maximum Speed | 0.9 Mach |
| Operational Altitude | 25,000 feet |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 feet |
| Endurance | 4+ hours |
| Wingspan | 10 m |
| Length | 14.5 m |
| Height | 3.5 m |
| Engine | Turbofan |
| Radar | Multi-purpose AESA Radar |
| Combat Roles | Air-to-air, SEAD, deep strike |
| Communication | LOS & BLOS |
Development Timeline
- 2021 – Project publicly unveiled
- 2022 – Engine integration and ground testing
- 2022 – First successful flight
- 2023–2024 – Advanced testing and production preparations
Final Thoughts
The Bayraktar Kızılelma marks a new era in Turkish aerospace innovation. Its stealthy design, jet propulsion, autonomous combat capability, and compatibility with naval platforms place it at the forefront of next-generation UCAV development. It’s not just a drone—it’s a strategic asset in modern warfare.
