Indonesia secures 12 Kizilelma combat drones in landmark Turkish defence deal
Indonesia has signed a deal to buy 12 Kizilelma unmanned fighter drones from Turkish defence firm Baykar. The agreement was finalised at the SAHA 2026 defence exhibition in Istanbul, marking a major step in modernising Indonesia’s naval capabilities.
The drones will primarily serve with the Indonesian navy, potentially operating from the newly acquired aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi. The contract was signed between Baykar and Indonesian company PT Republik Aero Dirgantara (Republkorp). Under the terms, Indonesia will receive 12 Kizilelma drones, with an option for four additional units. Deliveries are scheduled to start in 2028.
The Kizilelma drones will replace Indonesia’s retired AV-8B Harrier II jets, which previously operated aboard the Giuseppe Garibaldi. Italy formally approved the transfer of the decommissioned carrier to Indonesia on April 28, 2026. The drones could eventually form part of the carrier’s air wing.
The deal also includes plans to set up local production facilities and a maintenance centre in Indonesia. This move aims to boost the country’s self-sufficiency in drone operations and support.
Development of the Kizilelma has seen progress in recent years. The first PT4 prototype, fitted with the AI-322F engine, completed its maiden flight in May 2025. Production models will use the same Ukrainian-made engine, offering improved performance over earlier prototypes.
Turkey, meanwhile, is preparing to integrate its own Baykar drones, including the Kizilelma and Bayraktar TB3, into the air wing of its amphibious assault ship, TCG Anadolu. The acquisition strengthens Indonesia’s naval air power while expanding Baykar’s international presence. With deliveries set for 2028, the drones will enhance the capabilities of the Giuseppe Garibaldi carrier. The agreement also supports Indonesia’s long-term goal of building a domestic drone industry.
