Türkiye’s defense industry continues to bridge military innovation with humanitarian impact. Developed by STM (Savunma Teknolojileri Mühendislik ve Ticaret A.Ş.) under the coordination of the Presidency of Defence Industries (SSB), the Duvar Arkası Radar (DAR) system has now been delivered to the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) in its upgraded configuration. Designed for dual-use — both military and civilian — DAR stands as a prime example of how local engineering can strengthen both national defense and disaster response.

The system gained national recognition during the February 6, 2023 earthquakes, when it was actively used in search and rescue missions to locate and help save over 50 people trapped under rubble. Now, with its latest deliveries, DAR will serve within the TSK as an “Under-Rubble Live Detection Radar”, providing critical support in both field operations and humanitarian crises.

SSB President Haluk Görgün highlighted that DAR exemplifies Türkiye’s ability to produce technologies that extend beyond the battlefield: “Through national engineering, we are not only enhancing military capabilities but also contributing to civilian safety. DAR reflects the spirit of a defense industry that protects lives as well as sovereignty.”

STM General Manager Özgür Güleryüz noted that the system has already been integrated into the inventories of Denizli Metropolitan Municipality’s Fire Department and Erzincan Provincial Administration, both located in Türkiye’s earthquake-prone regions. “We aim to expand DAR’s availability to all emergency response organizations to strengthen the country’s preparedness for natural disasters,” Güleryüz said.

Weighing approximately 6.5 kilograms, the DAR system uses Ultra-Wideband (UWB) signals to detect living beings behind walls, debris, or concrete surfaces. It identifies minute human movements — such as breathing or subtle body motions — to determine the presence and position of individuals. The device can be operated by a single person, mounted on a tripod, and remotely controlled via tablet, offering over 4 hours of continuous operation.

By combining military precision with humanitarian functionality, STM’s DAR has become a symbol of Türkiye’s evolving defense innovation strategy. From counterterrorism missions to earthquake rescues, this national technology continues to prove how Turkish engineering can save lives — both on and off the battlefield.