Turkish aerospace pioneer Baykar and Indonesian defense firm PT Republik Aero Dirgantara (Republikorp), have signed a landmark framework agreement for the export of the Bayraktar Kizilelma unmanned combat aerial vehicle.
The deal, finalized during the second day of SAHA 2026 International Defense, Aerospace and Space Industry Fair in Istanbul, establishes Indonesia as the first international customer for the jet-powered, low-observable platform.
Under the terms of the agreement, Baykar will deliver an initial fleet of 12 Kizilelma aircraft to Indonesia starting in 2028. The contract includes provisions for four additional fleets, potentially expanding the total order to 60 units. Beyond the procurement of hardware, the partnership focuses on the establishment of local production, maintenance, and sustainment capabilities within Indonesia, reinforcing Jakarta's ambitions to develop a self-sufficient defense ecosystem.
"We have signed the first export agreement for Bayraktar Kizilelma with Indonesia," stated Baykar Chief Executive Officer Haluk Bayraktar during the signing ceremony. "Our goal is to deliver a fleet of 12 units starting from 2028. The deal also includes options for an additional four fleets, equivalent to 48 more aircraft in the future." He further characterized the agreement as a historic milestone, noting that the platform represents a shift from conventional armed drones toward unmanned fighter jet technology.
The Kizilelma, which conducted its maiden flight in 2022, features a maximum takeoff weight of 6 tonnes and a payload capacity of 1,500 kilograms. It is designed with a low radar cross-section and high maneuverability, capable of conducting air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. The aircraft also features short-runway take-off and landing capabilities, making it compatible with future Indonesian naval platforms or expeditionary airfields.
The acquisition marks a significant shift in the balance of aerial power. As regional neighbors modernize their air arms with manned fifth-generation fighters, Indonesia's move toward jet-powered UCAVs provides a cost-effective method to project power and maintain maritime security. Republikorp Group President Norman Joesoef remarked that the company was pleased with the agreement, emphasizing that the multi-billion dollar cooperation would strengthen Indonesia's role as a primary aerospace hub in the region.
The contract follows previous Indonesian procurements of Turkish platforms, including the Bayraktar TB2 and Akinci systems. By integrating the Kizilelma, the Indonesian National Armed Forces aim to achieve a tiered unmanned capability, ranging from medium-altitude reconnaissance to high-end stealthy strike operations.
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