ASELSAN at SAHA 2026: Building a Global Benchmark in Unmanned Naval Warfare

As maritime operations shift toward distributed, network-centric and increasingly asymmetric engagements, unmanned systems are emerging as a defining element of naval power. From littoral zones to critical infrastructure protection, navies are seeking scalable, cost-effective capabilities that can e

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ASELSAN at SAHA 2026: Building a Global Benchmark in Unmanned Naval Warfare

As maritime operations shift toward distributed, network-centric and increasingly asymmetric engagements, unmanned systems are emerging as a defining element of naval power. From littoral zones to critical infrastructure protection, navies are seeking scalable, cost-effective capabilities that can extend reach, reduce risk to personnel and operate effectively in contested environments.

At SAHA 2026 in Istanbul, ASELSAN is set to introduce a new generation of unmanned naval solutions that reflect this transformation. With this step, ASELSAN is extending its established ambition in maritime capabilities into the domain of autonomous and unmanned systems. Building on its established expertise in integrated naval systems and combat-proven technologies, the company is expanding its portfolio into autonomous and expendable platforms designed for both surface and subsurface operations. These new systems highlight ASELSAN’s approach to multi-domain maritime operations, where sensors, autonomy and precision effects are combined into flexible, mission-driven architectures.

Kamikaze Underwater Vehicles: KILIÇ FAMILY

Subsurface Precision: KILIÇ 10

KILIÇ-10 Kamikaze Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (Credit: Aselsan)

Below the surface, ASELSAN introduces KILIÇ 10 – Kamikaze Autonomous Underwater Vehicle 100WH, an expendable underwater system optimized for asymmetric warfare and covert operations. Designed for portability and rapid deployment, the system can be operated by a single user, offering a highly flexible solution for tactical scenarios.

The platform integrates multiple sensing and communication capabilities, including periscope-mounted thermal and infrared cameras, underwater low-light imaging and acoustic communication. These features enable precise detection, tracking and engagement of maritime targets in low-visibility environments.

With both RF and optional wire-guided control modes, as well as autonomous and swarm operation capabilities, KILIÇ 10 provides operators with multiple engagement options. Its low acoustic and visual signature enhance survivability, while its integrated warhead enables high-precision neutralization of surface and subsurface targets.

Extended Reach and Impact: KILIÇ 200

KILIÇ 200 – Kamikaze Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (Credit: Aselsan)

Complementing the 100WH variant, KILIÇ 200 – Kamikaze Autonomous Underwater Vehicle 200WH extends operational reach and payload capacity for more demanding mission profiles. With a larger form factor and the ability to be deployed via USVs, the system is designed to engage a broader set of targets, including subsea infrastructure, port facilities and offshore energy assets.

Maintaining the core design philosophy of autonomy and modularity, the 200WH variant incorporates advanced navigation, acoustic communication and swarm operation capabilities. Its low detectability and high-precision engagement profile make it particularly suited for operations requiring stealth and controlled impact.

The system’s expandability and compatibility with unmanned surface platforms enable it to function as part of a wider unmanned ecosystem, supporting coordinated multi-domain operations across the maritime domain.

Expanding the Surface Domain: TUFAN USV

TUFAN Unmanned Surface Vehicle (Credit: Aselsan)

At the surface level, ASELSAN introduces TUFAN, a new class of Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) designed for both offensive and ISR missions. With a compact 8.1-meter platform powered by a gasoline engine and waterjet propulsion, the system delivers high speed and maneuverability, enabling rapid deployment across littoral and open-sea environments.

What distinguishes TUFAN is its distributed swarm intelligence and advanced autonomy. The platform can operate individually or as part of coordinated swarm formations, forming mission-oriented subgroups capable of executing simultaneous tasks such as reconnaissance, surveillance and strike. Its ability to autonomously navigate, avoid obstacles and detect targets through vision-based systems enhances operational flexibility in complex maritime environments.

Equipped with a high-explosive insensitive warhead, TUFAN can engage surface targets, coastal infrastructure and high-value assets. Its modular architecture and multi-layer communication infrastructure allow integration into broader naval command networks, supporting both standalone missions and coordinated multi-platform operations.

A New Layer of Maritime Capability

Together, these new platforms represent ASELSAN’s strategic expansion into unmanned and autonomous naval systems. By combining swarm intelligence, advanced sensing, and precision strike capabilities, they offer scalable tools for addressing emerging threats in both surface and subsurface environments. Swarm attack capability, extended range, and kamikaze unmanned surface systems reflect the ambition to position Türkiye as a global benchmark in the field of USVs as in UAVs.

– End –

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