Italy and Turkey test loyal wingman drones: the turning point in aerospace cooperation

Italy collaborates with Turkey on "loyal wingman" drones: flight tests with the M-346 and the Kizilelma

An Italian M-346 training jet controlled a Baykar Kizilelma drone in flight during a collaboration test in Turkey. The test, conducted at Baykar's flight and test center in Çorlu, represents a significant step in the development of "loyal wingman" systems - autonomous drones that operate in tandem with manned aircraft. The news was announced by Leonardo, the Italian leader in the aerospace sector.

Quick Answer

The experimental flight follows the signing of a cooperation agreement between Leonardo and Baykar in 2023, which provided for the production in Italy of Baykar drones equipped with Leonardo systems. The test campaign involved two M-346s: a Fighter Attack variant owned by Leonardo and an Italian Air Force training aircraft as an escort. The Kizilelma drone demonstrated autonomous takeoff capabilities and connection with the M-346 through an advanced radio frequency data exchange system.

During the test, the two aircraft performed a series of missions to test algorithms, tactics, and procedures developed by Leonardo. "The advanced autonomy capabilities of the Kizilelma significantly simplified the integration process, allowing seamless implementation and rapid deployment," Leonardo stated in a press release. The Italian company said it had achieved an important milestone in the development of collaboration tactics between manned and unmanned aircraft (Crewed/UnCrewed Teaming, CUC-T).

The evolution towards autonomy

The refinement of artificial intelligence technologies, algorithms, and collaborative procedures aims to gradually shift unmanned systems from remote control to autonomy. This approach should reduce the pilot's workload and increase mission efficiency while maintaining full control and decision-making capabilities. Leonardo announced that further tests are planned in the coming months, with increasing complexity and new features.

Baykar contributed with its Smart Fleet autonomy capabilities, integrated into the algorithms for collaboration between manned and unmanned aircraft, using its own software and hardware infrastructure. As a partner in the GCAP fighter program, Leonardo aims to enhance its expertise in deploying "loyal wingman" drones, considered a key element of future GCAP operations.

The European context of collaborative drones

Another ambitious European project for the integration of manned fighters with collaborative unmanned systems was the FCAS (Future Combat Air System) program, which involved France, Germany, and Spain. This project envisioned the use of remotely controlled "loyal wingman" drones operating alongside next-generation fighters. However, the Next Generation Fighter component of the FCAS program was canceled in June 2026 due to industrial disagreements between Germany and France, although other elements of the program, such as the Combat Cloud, are expected to continue.

The success of the test between the M-346 and the Kizilelma represents a significant step forward for Italy in the field of autonomous air systems. Collaboration with Baykar, a Turkish company at the forefront of drone development, offers Leonardo the opportunity to strengthen its expertise in a rapidly evolving sector. This development takes on particular relevance in the context of the GCAP (Globe Combat Air Programme), an international initiative that sees Italy as a key partner alongside Japan and the United Kingdom.

Implications for the GCAP program

The GCAP aims to develop an advanced air combat system for 2035, integrating a new manned fighter with unmanned systems. The capabilities demonstrated by the M-346 and the Kizilelma during the tests in Turkey could significantly influence the architecture of the future GCAP system. In particular, the integration of "loyal wingman" drones with manned aircraft could improve operational flexibility and the effectiveness of future missions.

The possibility of deploying autonomous drones alongside manned fighters offers numerous tactical advantages. These systems can be used for reconnaissance, surveillance, and attack missions, while reducing risks to human crews. Moreover, the autonomy of the drones allows for greater adaptability in dynamic combat scenarios, where rapid response and adaptability are crucial.

Challenges and future prospects

Despite the progress made, several technical and operational challenges remain to be addressed. The safe and reliable management of autonomous systems in complex environments requires further developments in artificial intelligence technologies and communication protocols. Additionally, international regulations regarding autonomous weapons require careful evaluation to ensure that the systems developed meet ethical and legal standards. The collaboration between Italy and Turkey will need to address these challenges, developing shared protocols and standards for the use of autonomous drones.

Technological innovation at the service of defense

The integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and secure communication systems is fundamental to the success of "loyal wingman" drones. Leonardo and Baykar are working to enhance the autonomy and collaboration capabilities between manned and unmanned aircraft. This innovative approach could revolutionize military operations, making them more efficient and flexible. The adoption of these technologies could also influence the design and development of future defense systems, opening new possibilities for the aerospace industry.

The future of air combat

The success of the tests between the M-346 and the Kizilelma suggests that the future of air combat could increasingly be characterized by the integration of autonomous systems. The ability to operate in tandem with manned aircraft offers numerous tactical advantages, such as reducing risk to crews and increasing mission effectiveness. However, the adoption of these technologies requires a gradual approach, with careful evaluation of risks and opportunities. The collaboration between Italy and Turkey could contribute to defining new standards for the air combat of the future.

Conclusions

The collaboration between Leonardo and Baykar represents a significant step in the development of autonomous air systems. The tests conducted in Turkey have demonstrated the potential of "loyal wingman" drones and opened new prospects for the aerospace industry. Despite technical and regulatory challenges, the integration of these technologies could revolutionize military operations, offering new tactical and strategic advantages. The partnership between Italy and Turkey could contribute to strengthening Europe's position in the defense sector, promoting innovation and international cooperation.