Baykar’s Kizilelma prototype shines during Saudi Arabia’s visit

Baykar’s indigenous defense industry project, Bayraktar Kizilelma, drew attention with significant changes during Saudi Arabia’s visit to Türkiye.

Engineers revealed critical updates to Kizilelma during a photo shoot, highlighting advancements.

Last week, Saudi Arabia’s Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman Al-Saud and his delegation visited Türkiye, including Baykar’s facilities.

During this visit, the second prototype of Kizilelma displayed notable innovations.

Aerodynamic changes

The most noticeable change in the new prototype was the aircraft’s nose structure. A broader and sharper nose suggests integration capabilities for the Aesa radar.

Additionally, landing gears have been enhanced, which is crucial for operations like landing on the TCG Anadolu ship.

The new Kizilelma prototype also features aerodynamic modifications. Vertical stabilizers, previously prominent in the prototype, have been simplified to reduce radar visibility.

The nose modification in Kizilelma aims to integrate the Aesa radar developed by Aselsan.

This radar will be used in Kizilelma and other air platforms, such as Kaan, Hurjet, Anka III, Akinci and F-16.

Interior system innovations

Several subsystems in the rear of the aircraft have been integrated into the fuselage, improving the aerodynamic structure and facilitating new engine integrations. Currently, Kizilelma flies with an engine from Ukraine.

With widened air intakes, it is expected to be equipped with Indigenous engines in the near future.

Bayraktar Kizilelma’s new prototype is equipped with significant structural and technological updates.

This advancement marks a major step forward for Türkiye’s defense industry, enhancing the aircraft’s capabilities upon entering service.