Leonardo and Baykar have conducted the first real flight tests under the K-SWARM program at Baykar’s test site in Çorlu, Turkey. During the trials, the piloted Leonardo M-346 FA jet trainer and light combat aircraft directly controlled the Bayraktar KIZILELMA unmanned fighter.
KIZILELMA autonomously performed taxiing, took off and joined formation with the piloted aircraft. Using new avionics, the M-346 pilot controlled the group, with the tests demonstrating autonomous formation flight, position changes and the operation of secure real-time communication channels. Data transmission was provided by Leonardo’s GCC cyber system.
The trials became one of the first demonstrations in the world of practical interaction between a piloted jet aircraft and a jet combat drone within the concepts of a «loyal wingman» and swarm technologies. The test program has been underway since May of this year.
According to Baykar, the Bayraktar KIZILELMA has a maximum takeoff weight of 8.5 tons and a payload of 1,500 kilograms. Its cruising speed reaches Mach 0.6, while its maximum speed is Mach 0.9. The stated combat radius is 930 kilometers, the service ceiling is about 13,700 meters, and flight endurance is up to five hours.
The drone measures 14.5 meters in length, with a wingspan of 10 meters and a height of 3.5 meters.
KIZILELMA is equipped with an AESA radar and targeting systems. The aircraft is built using reduced-observable technologies.
The work is being carried out under LBA Systems, a joint venture created by Leonardo and Baykar in 2025 on a 50/50 basis.