---
title: Jet-Powered Unmanned Combat Fighter
type: technology
url: "https://www.envisioning.com/research/aegis/turkey__jet-powered-unmanned-fighter"
hub: aegis
summary: "Kizilelma achieved world's first BVR air-to-air kill by a jet-powered drone and first autonomous close-formation flight, entering serial production in 2026."
---

# Jet-Powered Unmanned Combat Fighter

Kizilelma achieved world's first BVR air-to-air kill by a jet-powered drone and first autonomous close-formation flight, entering serial production in 2026.
- Technology Readiness Level: 7/9
- Impact: 5/5
- Investment: 5/5
The Bayraktar Kizilelma is the world's first operationally-oriented jet-powered unmanned combat aircraft designed for air-to-air combat. Powered by a Ukrainian AI-25TLT turbofan (with indigenous engine development underway), it achieved multiple world firsts in 2025: the first beyond-visual-range air-to-air interception by a jet drone using the indigenous GÖKDOGAN missile, and the first fully autonomous close-formation flight by jet-powered unmanned aircraft. ASELSAN's MURAD AESA radar provides multi-target detection and concurrent air-to-air/air-to-ground modes.

The Kizilelma program represents a fundamental shift in air combat architecture. By demonstrating that an unmanned jet can autonomously detect, track, and destroy aerial targets beyond visual range, Turkey has proven a concept that the US, China, and Europe are still developing. The platform is designed to operate from the TCG Anadolu amphibious assault ship, giving Turkey carrier-based jet combat capability without the cost of manned carrier aviation.

Serial production is anticipated to begin in 2026, with the platform positioned as both a loyal wingman for manned fighters and an autonomous air superiority asset. Its export potential is enormous — countries that cannot afford F-35s or Su-57s may acquire Kizilelma-class UCAVs for a fraction of the cost. Turkey is effectively creating a new market category: affordable, expendable jet air combat capability.

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Source: Envisioning — Technology Research Institute (https://www.envisioning.com/research/aegis/turkey__jet-powered-unmanned-fighter)