Turkey’s Kizilelma UCAV: A Game Changer for Spain and Beyond?
The US ban on Turkey’s acquisition of F-35 fighter jets following the purchase of Russian S-400 defense systems spurred a new project: the Kizilelma, an unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV). Developed by Baykar Technologies, the Kizilelma is poised to revolutionize air combat with its stealth capabilities and high maneuverability.
First Deliveries Imminent, Spanish Demonstration Possible
Serial production of the Bayraktar Kizilelma has begun, with the first units expected to be delivered to the Turkish Armed Forces this quarter. Should these initial deliveries prove satisfactory, a demonstration for the Spanish Ministry of Defence is a distinct possibility. This comes amidst a strengthening defense relationship between Turkey and Spain.
Autonomous Combat Prowess: A World First
In November 2025, the Kizilelma achieved a significant milestone, becoming the first drone globally to shoot down an aerial target using a beyond-visual-range (BVR) missile autonomously. The target was a high-speed jet-powered target drone. Prior to this, simulations demonstrated the Kizilelma’s ability to virtually “neutralize” a Turkish Air Force F-16 fighter.
Kizilelma: Key Specifications and Advantages
The Kizilelma boasts a maximum takeoff weight of 8,500 kg and a payload capacity of 1,500 kg of ordnance, both internal and external. It offers an endurance of 3 to 6 hours, depending on configuration and load, and a service ceiling of up to 45,000 feet (approximately 14,000 meters). Designed to operate from ships like the TCG Anadolu – built on a Navantia design – it doesn’t require catapults for takeoff and landing.
Unlike traditional surveillance drones, the Kizilelma is equipped with an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and infrared search and track (IRST) sensors, enabling it to intercept other aircraft. It’s being positioned as a potential replacement for the F-35, offering superior speed to the Harrier, comparable or greater stealth than the F-35, and significantly lower costs, alongside reduced maintenance infrastructure requirements.
Strategic Implications for Spain: Complementing the Juan Carlos I
The Kizilelma’s design is particularly relevant for Spain, as it’s engineered to operate from short-deck ships like the TCG Anadolu, which is a sister ship to Spain’s LHD Juan Carlos I. This presents an attractive option as Spain considers the future retirement of its Harrier aircraft. Turkey is actively seeking strategic European partners for co-production, having already established similar agreements with Italy’s Leonardo.
A Growing Turkey-Spain Defense Partnership
This potential collaboration is underpinned by a rapidly strengthening defense relationship, recently solidified by a €1.6 billion contract for the purchase of 30 Turkish Hürjet training aircraft by the Spanish Air and Space Force. The relationship extends beyond defense, with a recent high-level meeting resulting in 13 agreements spanning sectors like science, energy, and employment, aiming to exceed €25 billion in annual trade.
Long-Term Commitment and Shifting Alliances
Spain has maintained a Patriot missile battery deployment in Turkey since 2015, as part of the NATO mission, currently named Support to Türkiye. The close ties between Spanish President Pedro Sánchez and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan are a key driver of this collaboration, with both governments describing their relationship as one between “partners and allies.” This partnership as well represents a degree of autonomy from the United States.
Did you know?
Baykar Technology achieved $2.2 billion in exports in 2025, making it a leading global UCAV exporter, generating 88% of its revenue from international sales.
FAQ
Q: What is the Kizilelma’s primary role?
A: It’s a UCAV designed for air combat, reconnaissance, and strike missions.
Q: Is the Kizilelma truly stealthy?
A: Yes, it’s designed with low radar observability (stealth) features.
Q: What is the status of the potential Spanish demonstration?
A: A demonstration is possible if the initial deliveries to the Turkish Armed Forces are successful.
Q: What is the significance of the Turkey-Spain defense partnership?
A: It represents a strengthening strategic alliance and a potential shift in defense procurement dynamics in Europe.
Pro Tip: The Kizilelma’s ability to operate from ships like the TCG Anadolu and Juan Carlos I significantly expands its operational flexibility and potential deployment scenarios.
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