Turkey has completed tests that could reshape the balance of power in military drones. The Kizilelma strike drone, developed by Baykar, has for the first time successfully launched an air-to-air missile at a moving target. This breakthrough elevates Turkish UAVs to a new level, allowing them not only to strike ground targets but also to engage in aerial combat.
During the test, five Turkish Air Force F-16 fighter jets and the Kizilelma drone took to the skies. Notably, executives from Baykar and Aselsan were among the pilots of the two-seat F-16Ds, highlighting the significance of the event for the country’s defense industry. Another F-16 and the Akinci strike drone provided security and support throughout the trial.
In footage released after the trials, Kizilelma is clearly seen carrying two Gökdoğan missiles—one painted orange, the other silver. It was the silver missile that was launched at a supersonic drone target simulating long-range aerial combat. The missile successfully hit its mark, confirming the new drone’s combat capabilities.
A technological breakthrough
This launch marked the first time worldwide that a strike drone has deployed an air-to-air missile in real-world conditions. Until now, only manned fighter jets had carried out such missions. Turkey now demonstrates that unmanned systems can not only attack ground targets, but also defend themselves in the air and engage other aircraft in combat.
Experts note that integrating Gökdoğan missiles into the Kizilelma platform opens up new prospects for the development of unmanned aviation. This decision could transform approaches to aerial operations, increasing drones’ autonomy and survivability on the battlefield. In the future, such technologies may be in demand not only in Turkey but also on the global arms market.
Test participants
Key figures in Turkey’s defense industry took part in the tests. The CEOs of Baykar and Aselsan were personally present onboard the fighter jets, highlighting the high level of trust placed in the project. In addition, the involvement of several types of aircraft made it possible to practice cooperation between manned and unmanned systems in real-life conditions.
Additional escort aircraft and the Akinci strike drone, which has already proven itself in previous operations, ensured flight safety. This approach minimized risks and allowed the tests to be conducted as efficiently as possible.
Significance for Turkey
The successful air-to-air missile launch from the Kizilelma drone strengthens Turkey’s position as one of the leaders in military technology. The country continues to invest in developing its own defense solutions, reducing its dependence on foreign suppliers. The new drone can carry out a wide range of missions, including reconnaissance, striking ground and air targets, as well as escorting manned aircraft.
In the coming years, further advancements of the Kizilelma platform and expansion of its capabilities are expected. The Turkish military have already announced plans to integrate new types of weaponry and control systems, which will allow the drone to operate even more independently and efficiently.
Development prospects
The emergence of strike drones capable of air combat may change aviation strategy in modern conflicts. These aircraft can perform missions previously reserved for manned fighters, while reducing risk to crew members. Additionally, using drones allows for a significant reduction in operational and maintenance costs for aviation equipment.
The international community is closely monitoring Turkey’s progress in this field. Experts are already forecasting growing interest from other countries in next-generation unmanned systems. In the near future, we can expect similar developments to appear in other nations as well.
If you didn’t know, Baykar is one of Turkey’s leading manufacturers of unmanned aerial vehicles. Founded in the early 2000s, the company quickly became a leader in both domestic and international markets. Among its most well-known products are the Bayraktar TB2 and Akinci strike drones, which are actively used in various regions around the world. Baykar works closely with other defense sector companies, including Aselsan, which specializes in electronics and control systems for military equipment.
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