Turkish Unmanned Vessel Technology Expands to European Markets

Türkiye's advanced unmanned surface vessel (USV) technologies are gaining international recognition, with defense electronics company Havelsan securing a strategic partnership to export autonomous systems to European markets. The collaboration with VN Maritime shipyard will integrate Havelsan's autonomous control systems into Icelandic-made Rafnar boats, marking a significant expansion of Turkish defense technology exports.

Havelsan will equip the Rafnar platforms with sophisticated autonomous and remote-controlled mission software, enabling the vessels to perform critical tasks ranging from fish detection and research operations to coastal security missions. The systems will incorporate sensor fusion technology, route optimization algorithms, collision avoidance systems, and secure command and control links to ensure continuous operational capability even in challenging Northern European maritime conditions.

The export initiative builds on Havelsan's successful development of the Sancar USV, created in partnership with Yonca shipyard and already deployed with Turkish security forces. Havelsan brings extensive expertise from this project along with its indigenous Advent combat management system, a network-supported, data-integrated platform that forms the backbone of its autonomous vessel technology. The Rafnar boats will be redesigned to support both manned and unmanned operations, incorporating Havelsan's radar, LiDAR, electro-optical systems, and camera technologies.

The partnership will initially focus on civilian applications within European markets, with plans to expand into military and security sectors including critical base protection, port security, and reconnaissance missions. Rafnar boats, renowned for their versatile OK hull technology, are already widely used in civil and security applications across Northern Europe, providing an established platform for integrating Turkish autonomous systems and creating new export channels for Türkiye's growing defense technology sector.