Turks hail swarming landmark as USV work diversifies
The MİR armed USV, as seen in a recent SSB video of swarming trials. (Image: SSB)
Turkish industry continues to develop new USV platforms and explore new applications for the technology.
Turkish UAVs may have gained international recognition in recent years but Turkish shipbuilders are trying to create similar success for autonomous surface vessels (USVs).
Multiple distinct projects are underway in Turkey, with the newest being a joint programme between the Yonca-Onuk JV and Havelsan that resulted in the launch of the armed Sancar USV on 2 June.
A procurement contract for Sancar was signed on 8 April 2022 between the Turkish defence procurement agency SSB and the Havelsan/Yonca-Onuk team.
Sancar is due to be delivered in Q4 2023. The unmanned vessel — armed with a 12.7mm machine gun in a
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Germany sinks F126 frigate programme in favour of cheaper MEKO A-200]()
Germany sinks F126 frigate programme in favour of cheaper MEKO A-200
On 24 June 2026, the German Ministry of Defence announced it was cancelling the F126 frigate programme in favour of procuring eight MEKO A-200 DEU frigates.
-
![UK’s Type 31 frigate balances cost pressure with long-term export ambition]()
UK’s Type 31 frigate balances cost pressure with long-term export ambition
The UK shipbuilder’s full-year results to the end of March revealed the impact of the £140 million charge linked to design changes and rework on the Royal Navy’s Type 31 frigate programme.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: Schiebel’s frigate-first strategy indicates a shift in UAV competition]()
Eurosatory 2026: Schiebel’s frigate-first strategy indicates a shift in UAV competition
Schiebel is pursuing opportunities in the UK and France while leveraging its integration with Naval Group’s FDI frigate programme to create new naval business across Europe.
