Türkiye’s indigenous ‘National Submarine’ project to be enhanced by AI

Türkiye's indigenous submarine programme, known as MILDEN, is set to receive a significant technological upgrade with the integration of artificial intelligence into its combat management infrastructure. Havelsan CEO Mehmet Akif Nacar announced at the TEKNOFEST Blue Homeland naval defence event that the company's Advent Muren system will orchestrate the submarine's entire operational chain, from sensor data to weapon deployment, while processing real-time intelligence and environmental conditions during missions.

AI-powered combat integration

Speaking to Anadolu on the sidelines of the four-day maritime exhibition, Nacar revealed that Havelsan expects to assume the role of combat system integrator for all national weapons and sensors developed under the MILGEM project. The indigenous submarine's AI-enhanced system will interface seamlessly with domestically produced munitions, including Roketsan's underwater Atmaca cruise missiles and the Akya torpedo, for which Havelsan has already developed the fire control systems. "The fire control system of our homegrown Akya torpedo will be fully integrated with Advent Muren, alongside other AI-powered functions," Nacar explained.

Advanced training and autonomous capabilities

Beyond combat systems, Havelsan has initiated research and development for the submarine's steering control mechanisms and is preparing a diving simulator to enhance crew training. The company is also developing information distribution systems that will serve as the central hub for data integration and remote control across the submarine. Additionally, Havelsan is nearing completion of its hybrid unmanned underwater vehicle Caka, which can operate both on the surface and submerged, further expanding Türkiye's underwater warfare capabilities.

Underwater navigation and future vision

The Avista project, which employs cost-effective sensors for underwater positioning, 3D mapping, and structural inspections without relying on global navigation satellite systems, will complement the Advent Muren system. "Avista's capabilities will be able to work in conjunction with Advent, as it can also be integrated into various underwater vehicles," Nacar noted. He added that these developments will contribute to submarine, surface, mine, and seabed warfare capabilities. Nacar also invited young engineers to TEKNOFEST 2026, which will be held in his hometown of Şanlıurfa, encouraging participation in Türkiye's growing defence technology ecosystem.