One of the innovative unmanned systems projects of the Turkish defense industry, the Low-Altitude Multi-Purpose Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) TALAY, has reached the final stage before sea trials. Developed by SolidAERO, the platform was first introduced at SAHA Expo last year and attracted significant attention at IDEF 2025 this year. Currently, intensive flight and performance tests are being conducted using multiple prototypes.

TALAY is designed to fly extremely close to the sea surface, similar to an anti-ship missile, allowing it to remain below radar detection limits. This low-altitude flight concept, combined with the natural clutter created by sea waves, significantly reduces the probability of detection by enemy naval platforms and coastal defense systems. As a result, TALAY offers a highly survivable solution for maritime operational environments.

The UAV’s artificial intelligence modules have entered the final validation phase, particularly in obstacle detection, safe low-altitude flight, and autonomous avoidance maneuvers. While traveling at high speed just above the sea surface, TALAY can identify environmental factors in real time and execute optimized maneuvers. In addition, its controlled water-landing capability at the end of a mission is being tested separately through the onboard flight computer and integrated sensor suite, ensuring safe operation throughout all phases of maritime missions.

With an endurance of approximately three hours, a cruising speed exceeding 200 kilometers per hour, and a payload capacity of around 30 kilograms, TALAY is capable of performing a wide range of missions. These include kamikaze strike roles, intelligence gathering, surveillance, and logistical support. Capable of operating at altitudes ranging from 30 centimeters to 150 meters above sea level, TALAY is designed as a hybrid system that combines missile-like flight characteristics with UAV-level controllability. Serial production is planned for the end of 2026, with induction into security forces’ inventories targeted for early 2027.