STM readies underwater drone, fast attack craft prototype

STM unveiled its latest naval projects at the TEKNOFEST Blue Homeland exhibition in Kocaeli, announcing that mass production of the Neta autonomous underwater vehicle has commenced while the company prepares to launch the first prototype of a domestically developed fast attack craft before year-end, according to Anadolu.

Frigate and fast attack craft programs

Guleryuz said production of seven additional Istif-class frigates for the Turkish Navy is progressing at an intense pace. "Production of seven more Istif-class frigates for the Turkish Navy is continuing at a very intense pace, and we plan to complete construction and testing as soon as possible," he said on the sidelines of the event, for which Anadolu serves as global communications partner. The general manager added that the fast attack craft prototype will enter outfitting works following its launch scheduled for late 2024 or early 2025.

Autonomous underwater expansion

The defense contractor is leveraging its experience from the Kargu tactical unmanned aerial vehicle program to expand into unmanned underwater systems. The Neta autonomous underwater vehicle has entered mass production and will be joined by additional platforms designed for mine countermeasures and search-and-rescue operations. Guleryuz noted that STM is integrating military maritime expertise with tactical drone capabilities to address emerging operational requirements.

International deliveries

Export activities are accelerating alongside domestic programs, with STM having launched three corvettes for the Royal Malaysian Navy's Littoral Mission Ship Batch 2 project over a four-month span. "Our export activities are also continuing at a rapid pace. Over the past four months, we launched Malaysia’s three corvettes one after another in what could be record time," Guleryuz said. The company has completed the first vessel for Ukraine and scheduled the second for 2027 delivery, while also preparing to lay the keel for a second replenishment ship bound for the Portuguese Navy.