## Breakthrough in Turkish Drone Technology Turkey marked a major milestone in autonomous military aviation after its locally developed combat drone, the **Bayraktar KIZILELMA**, successfully destroyed a target jet without any pilot input. The achievement cements Turkey’s growing influence in drone technology and modern warfare automation. ## The Bayraktar KIZILELMA Developed by **Baykar Technology**, the KIZILELMA represents Turkey’s first indigenous unmanned combat aircraft designed for high-speed operations and complex missions. The drone is capable of taking off and landing autonomously on short runways, a feature that gives it impressive versatility. According to Baykar officials, the aircraft features **stealth capabilities**, **high maneuverability**, and the ability to carry a wide variety of precision munitions. Its flight control and targeting systems are supported entirely by artificial intelligence. ## Historic Live-Fire Test During a recent demonstration, the KIZILELMA made history by **intercepting and destroying a jet drone target** mid-air without human intervention. Video footage released by Baykar shows the drone locking onto its target and executing the strike with high precision. Baykar’s chairman **Selçuk Bayraktar** described the event as “a turning point in aviation history,” emphasizing that the success symbolizes a new era where AI-guided combat systems operate independently in the sky. ## Strategic Impact and Future Outlook The test reinforces Turkey’s position as a global leader in drone development, alongside nations like the United States, China, and Israel. Analysts note that KIZILELMA’s autonomous combat skills could reshape aerial warfare doctrines and give Turkey a significant strategic advantage. Baykar confirmed that further operational tests will follow as the drone approaches mass production for use by the **Turkish Armed Forces** and potential international partners. > “KIZILELMA will redefine the future of aerial combat,” said Bayraktar in a post-test briefing. *** **Author’s summary:** Turkey’s AI-driven Bayraktar KIZILELMA drone made aviation history by autonomously downing a jet target, signaling a new phase in unmanned warfare technology.

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International Business Times UK on MSN — 2025-11-30