Baykar has signed its first export agreement for the Kızılelma unmanned combat aircraft with Indonesia. Concluded at the SAHA 2026 defense fair, the contract with Indonesian defense group Republikorp covers delivery of 12 Kızılelma platforms beginning in 2028. The agreement also includes an option for four additional fleets. Baykar CEO Haluk Bayraktar described the agreement as a historic milestone for both Baykar and Turkey's defense sector.

Baykar, founded in 1992, stands as one of Turkey's leading unmanned aerial vehicle manufacturers. The company has established a strong international market position through successful platforms such as the Bayraktar TB2 and Akıncı. The Kızılelma project represents a significant advancement in Baykar's technological capabilities, marking a major step in the unmanned combat aircraft category. The company's research and development efforts demonstrate how far the Turkish defense industry ecosystem has progressed in high-technology domains.

The Kızılelma platform features a maximum takeoff weight of 8.5 tons and payload capacity of 1.5 tons. The system stands out for its low radar visibility and high maneuverability. With an internal weapons bay that preserves stealth characteristics, Kızılelma is recognized as the first unmanned combat aircraft capable of detecting and engaging aerial targets using its own AESA radar system and domestically produced air-to-air missiles. AI-supported autonomous formation flight and smart fleet operations position the platform to shape future aerial warfare doctrine.

The Kızılelma development timeline began with its first flight in 2022. Intensive flight activities have continued since that milestone. Baykar's CEO indicated that the platform will enter service with the Turkish Armed Forces during 2026. This timeline demonstrates the system's operational maturity and readiness for serial production.

Indonesia, having previously acquired Bayraktar TB2 and Akıncı platforms, will now add Kızılelma as its third-generation Baykar system. The agreement includes establishment of production and maintenance centers in Indonesia. Globally, unmanned combat aircraft such as Kızılelma compete with platforms like the MQ-9B Reaper. Turkish defense industry has transitioned from an importer to an exporter by developing indigenous technology in this domain. At the same fair, ASELSAN signed two additional contracts with Indonesian authorities covering unmanned naval vehicle payloads and mission-critical communication systems.