Türkiye Finally Begins Developing Several Variants of the Bayraktar Kızılelma in 2026

Türkiye Finally Begins Developing Several Variants of the Bayraktar Kızılelma in 2026

Turkey continues to demonstrate its ambitions as a rising power in the global defense industry. One of its most strategic projects, garnering international attention, is the Bayraktar Kızılelma, a next-generation unmanned combat aircraft developed by Baykar Defense. Following the successful initial testing of the Kızılelma, Turkey plans to develop several follow-up variants, primarily focused on the Kızılelma-B and Kızılelma-C. These two variants are designed to enhance air combat capabilities and address modern warfare scenarios.

The Evolution of the Kızılelma in Turkey's Defense Strategy
The Kızılelma was first introduced as a high-speed combat drone concept capable of operating from light aircraft carriers, including the amphibious assault ship TCG Anadolu. Unlike conventional drones, the Kızılelma is designed with an unmanned fighter jet approach, combining stealth technology, artificial intelligence, and high maneuverability.

The development of the Kızılelma-B and Kızılelma-C variants is part of Turkey's long-term strategy to create an ecosystem of unmanned fighter aircraft that can work alongside manned fighter jets such as the KAAN and the F-16. With this approach, Turkey aims for air dominance based on autonomous systems and an integrated combat network.

The Sophistication of the Kızılelma-B
More Powerful Engine and High Performance
The Kızılelma-B is equipped with a turbofan engine with greater thrust than the initial variant. This improvement enables: Near-transonic speeds and faster acceleration during air combat.

Enhanced Stealth Design
The Kızılelma-B features a low radar cross-section design with: An aerodynamic fuselage, designed using radar-absorbent materials, and a spacious internal weapons bay.

AI-Based Intelligent Avionics
The Kızılelma-B's main advancement lies in its artificial intelligence (AI), which supports: Semi-autonomous decision-making, real-time threat analysis, and automated maneuvering during air combat.

Shipboard Operational Capabilities
The Kızılelma-B is designed for STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing), allowing it to be operated from Turkish warships. This gives Turkey a strategic advantage in naval operations without having to rely on manned fighter jets.

The Sophistication of the Kızılelma-C
While the Kızılelma-B represents a significant upgrade, the Kızılelma-C is the pinnacle of Turkey's vision for future combat drones. The Kızılelma-C is designed with a more powerful engine, supersonic speed, limited dogfight capability, and rapid penetration into enemy territory. This speed makes the Kızılelma-C difficult to intercept by conventional air defense systems.

Larger Payload and Advanced Weapons
The C variant is capable of carrying: Various weapons such as medium-range air-to-air missiles, mini-cruise missiles, and Turkish-made high-precision smart bombs. All weapons are stored in internal compartments, maintaining optimal stealth characteristics.

Next-Generation Sensors and Radar
The Kızılelma-C is equipped with: an AESA radar, an IRST (Infrared Search and Track) system, and advanced electro-optical sensors. This combination of sensors provides high situational awareness, even in battlefields with heavy electronic interference.

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