Following a series of ground tests for the afterburner mode, Baykar’s KIZILELMA unmanned fighter’s third prototype, PT3, took flight utilising the afterburner.
After taking off with the afterburner, PT3 performed somewhat more aggressive manoeuvres than previous flight tests using its canards.
The next tests will likely include flight using afterburner for higher speeds and sharper manoeuvres.
Kızılelma is also planned for the future aircraft carrier MUGEM; the afterburner plays a critical role in STOBAR operation as the aircraft relies on its thrust, the slope, and the ship’s speed.
While Baykar has not yet specified the engine, it is considered an AI-322 type, as the firm signed an agreement before the breakout of the Russo-Ukrainian War. AI-322’s afterburning variants can provide more than 40 kN of thrust on the afterburner.
KIZILELMA’s third prototype includes many aerodynamic improvements, low observability, and sensor provisions. Additionally, new optical apertures are seen on the new prototype, which might be directional awareness systems or missile warning systems. Baykar rolled out the fourth prototype, which is externally similar to the third one.
