Turkish defence firm unveils new multi-role USV

Turkish defence technology company Baygalata recently unveiled a new type of unmanned surface vehicle (USV) designed for both commercial and security applications.

Baygalata said that the USV is already in production and that one example of the craft was handed over to an undisclosed overseas customer in 2024.

Each USV in the series measures 6.5 by 2.2 metres and displaces 2,500 kg. An inboard diesel engine delivers a top speed of over 45 knots and a range of 350 nautical miles.

Up to 250 kg of various payloads can be carried to enable the craft to perform missions such as patrol, surveillance, exploration, surveys using side-scan sonar, and even one-way attack.

The USV also boasts a reduced radar cross-section and a low silhouette, allowing it to operate in denied areas.

The craft can be remotely controlled or configured to operate in either semi-autonomous or fully autonomous mode with the aid of collision avoidance technology.