Bayraktar KIZILELMA is Turkey’s pioneering jet-powered unmanned combat aircraft (UCAV) designed to perform missions traditionally carried out by manned fighter jets. With its low-observable structure, advanced avionics and fully autonomous flight capabilities, KIZILELMA can undertake multi-role missions such as reconnaissance, surveillance, air-to-air engagement and precision strike operations. Making its maiden flight on December 14, 2022, the platform is engineered for both land-based runways and naval operations, including deployment from amphibious assault ship decks.

From a technical standpoint, KIZILELMA brings forward impressive specifications: a maximum takeoff weight of approximately 8.5 tons, 1,500 kg payload capacity, a combat radius close to 500 nautical miles, a cruise speed of 0.6 Mach and a top speed of around 0.9 Mach. It operates at altitudes up to 25,000 feet and supports LOS/BLOS communication, enabling long-range offensive and reconnaissance operations. Equipped with advanced sensors such as multi-mode AESA radar, EO/IR targeting systems, and compatible with air-to-air missiles, guided munitions and cruise missiles, KIZILELMA is built for next-generation battlefield requirements.

Its autonomous takeoff-landing abilities, short-runway performance and carrier deck compatibility make it a highly flexible asset. As of 2025, serial production has begun, and the system is expected to take part in not only strike missions but also air superiority roles, positioning KIZILELMA as a true game-changer in unmanned warfare technologies.