Turkey Begins Production of Kızılelma Drone Powered by Ukrainian Engine
Turkey has officially entered the era of next-generation unmanned air combat with the launch of serial production for the Bayraktar Kızılelma drone fighter.
The Gaze reports this, referring to a statement made by Selçuk Bayraktar, Chairman of the Board at Baykar.
He confirmed that the sixth prototype is currently on the production line, with deployment to the Turkish Armed Forces expected in 2026.
The Kızılelma, meaning “Red Apple” in Turkish, is a cutting-edge unmanned combat aircraft designed to perform high-risk missions without endangering human lives.
Developed entirely with Baykar’s own resources since 2021, the aircraft is equipped with an advanced Ukrainian-made AI-322F turbofan engine.
The engine, produced in partnership with Ukrainian companies, enables the drone to reach supersonic speeds and execute highly maneuverable operations.
Unlike earlier drones primarily built for reconnaissance, the Kızılelma is a full-fledged multi-role combat platform.
It can operate from short-runway aircraft carriers, perform autonomous takeoffs and landings, and engage in complex combat scenarios. With a payload capacity of up to 1.5 tons, the aircraft is capable of carrying a variety of precision-guided munitions.
One of its key features is low radar visibility, complemented by an AESA radar system, which provides enhanced situational awareness and targeting capabilities on the battlefield.
Baykar envisions the Kızılelma as a cornerstone of future aerial warfare, contributing to autonomous drone swarms and redefining air superiority.
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