Baykar Defense has started production of jet-powered, single-engine, low-observable [stealth], supersonic, carrier-capable unmanned combat aircraft Bayraktar Kızılelma [Bayraktar Red Apple], BulgarianMilitary.com has learned, citing a statement by Selcuk Bayraktar, a technical manager in the company.
“Bigger and more agile “fish” entered the production line after 3 and a half years of development. This is an unmanned combat aircraft Bayraktar Kızılelma. He is already on the road, stay tuned,” said Selcuk Bayraktar.
Bayraktar Kızılelma
Along with the rapid development of technology, it is predicted that future air battles will be fought with drones, in the doctrines of defense, which are changing more rapidly with each passing day. In this context, the unmanned combat aircraft Bayraktar Kızılelma will guide the combat concept of the future.
The unmanned combat system, developed by Baykar and based on the experience of Bayraktar TB2 and Bayraktar Akinci, which are changing the game in the world, will be equipped with the technologies of the future. Bayraktar Kızılelma, which will be able to land and take off on short runways, such as the TCG Anadolu, which Turkey has built and is currently conducting cruise tests, will play an important role in overseas missions.
Low radar visibility of Bayraktar Kızılelma
The peculiarity of the low radar cross-section, which is considered one of the most critical issues in the design processes of manned fighter jets, was also taken into account in the design of Bayraktar Kızılelma.
The aircraft, which will use all ammunition developed nationally by Turkish engineers, will be a large power multiplier with a planned payload of 1,500 kilograms. Bayraktar Kızılelma, which aims to stay in the air for 5 hours with a mission radius of 500 nm, will also have high situational awareness with the AESA radar to be integrated.
First flight in 2023
Baykar, which has made Turkey one of the few countries that can develop offensive unmanned aerial vehicles by developing the Bayraktar Akinci and Bayraktar TB2, aims to conduct Bayraktar Kızılelma’s first flight test in 2023.
BulgarianMilitary.com reminded that Bayraktar Akinci entered the integration line in 2018. It successfully completed its first flight in 2019. Akinci entered the inventory on August 29, 2021, approximately 1.5 years after its first flight, and began its operational duty. The aim is to carry out a similar project process for Bayraktar Kızılelma by the Baykar team led by Selcuk Bayraktar.
Source: BulgarianMilitary.com
