Baykar announced the captive flight test of ASELSAN’s TOLUN small-diameter bomb on KIZILELMA unmanned fighter’s third prototype, using external hardpoints.
KIZILELMA has performed its first flight test with a munition with the TOLUN small-diameter bomb (SDB) fitted under the SADAK-4T smart rack. The third prototype of KIZILELMA is seen carrying two SADAK-4T, each carrying one TOLUN, on the external hardpoints.
The test signals the beginning of KIZILELMA’s munition test phase. It is known that, as an unmanned fighter, KIZILELMA will be able to carry air-to-air and air-to-surface munitions inside the internal weapon bays or under the external hardpoints.
Considering the possible timeframe for MURAD-series AESA radar’s integration on KIZILELMA, it is likely that the first tests will include air-to-surface munitions such as TOLUN SDB, ÇAKIR cruise missile, and various guidance kits. However, the test of BOZDOĞAN WVRAAM might come earlier since the missile uses IIR guidance and launches can be performed without a radar.
Currently, two prototypes of KIZILELMA, PT-3 and PT-4 with AI-322 series afterburning turbofans, are continuing their flight tests.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor: Özgür Ekşi
