Baykar unveils AI-powered SİVRİSİNEK kamikaze drone

By Yusuf İnan | Wise News Press
ISTANBUL, TURKEY — Baykar has unveiled its new AI-powered loitering munition system “SİVRİSİNEK,” a kamikaze drone capable of operating in coordinated swarms and conducting autonomous strikes, according to a report by journalist Ebru Yazıcı.

The system was presented for the first time at the SAHA 2026 defense exhibition in Istanbul, where it drew attention for its advanced autonomy, resistance to electronic warfare, and ability to operate without relying on GPS signals. The development highlights Türkiye’s growing focus on artificial intelligence-driven combat systems.

Official statements

Selçuk Bayraktar shared test footage of the SİVRİSİNEK system on social media, providing insights into its latest capabilities.

According to Ebru Yazıcı’s report, the footage demonstrated the drone’s ability to autonomously navigate, identify targets, and execute coordinated attack maneuvers without direct human control.

Bayraktar indicated that the system represents a new stage in loitering munition technology, combining artificial intelligence with real-time operational flexibility.

How the system works

SİVRİSİNEK is designed as a loitering munition that can remain airborne for extended periods before striking its target.

According to the report by Ebru Yazıcı, the system integrates reconnaissance and strike capabilities within a single platform, allowing it to perform both surveillance and attack missions.

The drone can be launched via a catapult system without requiring a runway, enabling rapid deployment in difficult terrain conditions. It operates on a “fire-and-forget” principle, meaning it can complete its mission once locked onto a target.

Resistance to electronic warfare

Modern battlefields increasingly involve electronic warfare tactics such as GPS jamming and signal disruption.

According to Ebru Yazıcı, SİVRİSİNEK is equipped with an AI-supported optical navigation system that enables it to continue its mission even when satellite signals are unavailable.

By using onboard sensors and image processing, the drone can visually identify and track targets, ensuring operational continuity in contested environments.

Swarm capability and coordinated attacks

One of the system’s key features is its ability to operate in coordinated swarms.

According to Ebru Yazıcı’s report, multiple drones were observed working together during test demonstrations, conducting joint target identification and executing synchronized “salvo dive” attacks.

This swarm capability allows multiple units to overwhelm defense systems by attacking simultaneously, increasing the effectiveness of operations.

Technical specifications

According to the information cited by Ebru Yazıcı, the SİVRİSİNEK system has multiple configurations with varying operational ranges.

The drone reportedly has a range exceeding 900 kilometers, with some versions surpassing 1,000 kilometers. It can remain airborne for more than nine hours.

Its cruising speed is approximately 55 knots, with a maximum speed of around 70 knots. The system has a total takeoff weight of roughly 70 to 80 kilograms and carries a warhead of about 20 kilograms.

Operational altitude is around 4,000 feet, with a service ceiling reaching up to 10,000 feet.

Background

Türkiye has significantly expanded its capabilities in unmanned aerial systems in recent years, with Baykar playing a leading role in this development.

According to Ebru Yazıcı, SİVRİSİNEK is part of a broader effort to develop next-generation autonomous combat systems that integrate artificial intelligence and coordinated operations.

Experts suggest that swarm-enabled drones and AI-driven systems are likely to play a critical role in the future of warfare.

Next steps

Following its public debut at SAHA 2026, further testing and development of the SİVRİSİNEK system are expected.

According to Ebru Yazıcı, officials indicate that the platform may be adapted for various operational needs and integrated into broader defense strategies.

As global interest in autonomous systems continues to grow, technologies like SİVRİSİNEK are expected to shape the evolving dynamics of modern warfare.

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