Turkey’s first locally-built armed USV begins sea trials

The first armed unmanned surface vehicle (AUSV) to be built in Turkey has finally been launched and has already begun undergoing sea trials.

Built by Antalya-based ARES Shipyard and developed with the cooperation of local technology firm Meteksan Defence Industry, the USV is the first in the ULAQ series designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR); surface warfare; asymmetric warfare; escort missions; and strategic infrastructure protection.

The ULAQ prototype also has a range of 400 kilometres, a speed of 35 knots, day/night vision capabilities, encrypted communication infrastructure, and the capability to be operated from mobile vehicles and headquarters or from sea platforms such as aircraft carriers or frigates. Armament includes Cirit laser-guided rockets and L-Umtas laser-guided anti-ship missiles.

ARES said the USV will undergo missile firing tests upon successful completion of sea trials.