Baykar’s Bayraktar Kızılelma Completes First Live-Fire Test of TOLUN and TEBER-82 Munitions to Hits Targets

Baykar Technologies has announced that Türkiye’s first unmanned fighter jet, the Bayraktar Kızılelma, has successfully completed its first live-fire test. The test was conducted by the third prototype, PT-3, at the AKINCI Flight Training and Test Center in Çorlu, Tekirdağ. During two separate flights, the aircraft deployed ASELSAN's TOLUN precision munition and ROKETSAN's TEBER-82 winged guidance kit, achieving direct hits on designated targets.

Specifications of Bayraktar Kızılelma

The Bayraktar Kızılelma is a single-engine, jet-powered unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) developed under Türkiye's MIUS (Mücadele İnsansız Hava Aracı Sistemi) program. It features a low radar cross-section design, making it suitable for both land-based and carrier operations. Key specifications include:

• Wingspan: 10 meters

• Length: 14.5 meters

• Height: 3.5 meters

• Maximum Takeoff Weight: 8,500 kg

• Payload Capacity: 1,500 kg

• Cruising Speed: 0.6 Mach

• Maximum Speed: 0.9 Mach

• Combat Radius: 500 nautical miles (approximately 926 km)

• Operational Altitude: Up to 25,000 feet (7,620 meters)

• Service Ceiling: Up to 45,000 feet (13,716 meters)

The aircraft is powered by a turbofan engine developed through a Turkish-Ukrainian collaboration. It is equipped with advanced avionics, including AESA radar, electro-optical targeting systems, and infrared search and track (IRST) capabilities. The Kızılelma is designed to operate autonomously or in coordination with manned aircraft, serving as a "loyal wingman" in combat scenarios.

Production and Development Timeline

The Kızılelma project was initiated in 2021, with the first prototype completing its maiden flight in December 2022. The PT-3 prototype, which conducted the recent live-fire tests, is considered the production prototype, featuring significant upgrades in airframe design, engine performance, and avionics. Baykar Technologies began mass production of the Kızılelma in October 2024, with plans to produce over 10 units by 2026.

The successful live-fire test marks a significant milestone in the development of Türkiye's indigenous unmanned combat capabilities. With its advanced specifications and production plans, the Bayraktar Kızılelma is poised to enhance Türkiye's defense capabilities in the coming years.