HAVELSAN unveiled its next-generation unmanned ground vehicle BARKAN 3 at the SAHA 2026 International Defense, Aviation and Space Industry Fair. The vehicle weighs 1 ton, measures 2.7 meters in length and 1.5 meters in width, and is designed to carry 250 kilograms of payload. BARKAN 3 represents a second-tier platform, following the development of BARKAN 1 and 2 models.

The new vehicle incorporates significant improvements over its predecessors. Payload capacity, sensor weight tolerance, and motor power have all been enhanced. HAVELSAN General Manager Mehmet Akif Nacar stated that the vehicle is engineered to operate across extended distances and challenging terrain, including steep slopes. BARKAN 3 demonstrates improved terrain adaptability with the capability to traverse obstacles up to 35 centimeters in height, marking a notable advancement over previous generations.

Among BARKAN 3's most distinctive features are its 360-degree sensing capability and artificial intelligence integration. The vehicle can independently perceive its environment and determine its route autonomously. The integrated AI algorithm enables the system to memorize traversed paths and execute autonomous "return-to-base" operations when required. The system operates in coordination with radar technologies and is equipped with electro-optical cameras.

BARKAN 3 is designed to carry and manage unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). When linked to a ground control station, operators can command any UAVs carried aboard the vehicle. The vehicle can detect and classify threats, then engage weapons; however, autonomous firing authority has not been granted. Final decision-making and weapon control remain with the human operator at the ground control station.

HAVELSAN has signed a contract for serial production of BARKAN 2. General Manager Nacar indicated that a production contract for BARKAN 3 is expected to be signed in the near term. The vehicle has undergone approximately five years of field testing, including trials in realistic operational environments and military exercises. HAVELSAN plans to implement configuration modifications to address emerging operational requirements for the new platform.

The company is committed to expanding its export footprint. With current export rates between 25 and 30 percent, HAVELSAN aims to increase this figure to 50 percent and beyond. Operating in over 30 countries across four continents, from Indonesia to Chile, the company focuses on software technologies, command and control systems, autonomous systems, and simulators. HAVELSAN has achieved significant success in this specialized domain.