Baykar Tests First AI-Powered Mini Cruise Missile
Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar, renowned for its combat drone Bayraktar TB2, has successfully conducted tests of the new Kemankes 2 Mini Smart cruise missile equipped with artificial intelligence, as announced by the company's CEO Selcuk Bayraktar on Twitter.
For the test launches of the Kemankes 2 Mini Smart missile, an off-road vehicle was used with specially installed mounts. It is noted that the missile can fly over 200 kilometres and remain airborne for about an hour.
The manufacturer has stated that thanks to artificial intelligence and optical guidance system, Kemankes 2 Mini Smart is capable of autonomously engaging targets deep in enemy territory. With communication available in the final stage of flight, the operator can also guide it to the target.
There is no information yet about the start of mass production of Kemankes 2 Mini Smart.
Recall that last summer, The Gaze reported that a drone manufacturing plant for Bayraktar drones is under construction near Kyiv, Ukraine. According to Haluk Bayraktar, the construction of the plant will take about 12 months. After the construction is completed, the company plans to start installing equipment and organizing the production structure. Baykar's CEO also mentioned that the plant plans to produce approximately 120 drones per year.
Baykar's CEO emphasized that this production will be environmentally friendly and self-sufficient, as Ukraine possesses unique engine manufacturing technologies used in drones.
"The plant in Ukraine will be large, we plan to employ about 500 people," said Baykar's CEO.
Haluk Bayraktar also expressed support for Ukraine, stating that Baykar operates in the country not for profit, but to support the Ukrainian people's struggle for freedom and independence. He highlighted the company's humanitarian initiatives, such as sending humanitarian aid and organizing recreational camps for Ukrainian children.
It was also revealed in September last year that Baykar invested approximately $100 million in three projects in Ukraine, including the construction of this drone manufacturing plant.