Image: Leonardo
Leonardo and Baykar have completed the first live testing phase of their K-SWARM programme. The trials successfully demonstrated Crewed/Uncrewed Teaming (CUC-T) and swarm tactics capabilities between advanced combat aircraft.
The flights took place in May at Baykar’s flight and test centre in Çorlu, Türkiye. They involved two Leonardo M-346 aircraft and a Bayraktar KIZILELMA Uncrewed Fighter Aircraft. A Leonardo-owned M-346 Fighter Attack Variant served as the primary crewed platform, with an Italian Air Force T-346A acting as chase aircraft.
The campaign validated next-generation autonomous formation algorithms. Following autonomous taxi and take-off, KIZILELMA rejoined the M-346 Fighter Attack using Smart Fleet Autonomy algorithms from Baykar’s Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) Laboratory. M-346 pilots then commanded different formations, which KIZILELMA executed autonomously through a dedicated crewed/uncrewed computing system. Tested manoeuvres included position changes, separations and rejoins.
An advanced radio frequency data exchange system synchronised all data shared between the two platforms. Leonardo’s GCC Tactical Platform, a proprietary cyber defence system, provided real-time command and control protection.
The programme’s algorithms came from Leonardo’s Avionic and Flight Control Innovation Labs and PC2LAB concept laboratory in Turin. These connected to an M-346 Full Mission Simulator in Venegono, Italy.
As per a recent press statement, the companies plan new tests in the coming months, with increasing complexity and additional functions. The programme aims to advance situational awareness and coordinated multi-asset operations across multidomain scenarios.
Read more on Leonardo’s website
