STM Savunma Teknolojileri Mühendislik ve Ticaret AŞ unveiled its YAKTU Kamikaze Unmanned Surface Vessel for the first time at SAHA 2026 International Defense, Aerospace and Space Industry Fair. Combining its engineering experience in military naval platforms with its expertise in autonomous systems, STM aims to open a new era in the defense of the Blue Homeland with YAKTU. Developed with national resources, the platform stands out with its high speed, low silhouette, autonomous mission capability and suitability for swarm operations.

YAKTU was designed for a wide range of missions, from port defense to open-sea operations. With a maximum speed of over 50 knots, high strike power and compact body structure, the system was developed to respond to the critical needs of asymmetric naval warfare. Optimized for precision attack missions against strategic surface targets, the platform has a length of 5.8 meters and a displacement of 1.7 tons. Its low-profile design makes it harder to detect during operations.

STM General Manager Özgür Güleryüz stated that the company is proud to showcase YAKTU for the first time at SAHA 2026. He emphasized that the platform is not merely a high-speed strike vehicle, but a strategic force multiplier in naval warfare thanks to its AI-supported autonomous architecture and swarm capability. According to Güleryüz, multiple kamikaze unmanned surface vessels can move in coordination and pressure a target from different angles, offering a cost-effective and high-precision solution to overcome modern defense lines.

One of YAKTU’s most notable features is its swarm operation capability. The system can perform autonomous mission distribution through real-time data sharing between units. This allows multiple YAKTU platforms to engage the same target or different target groups in a coordinated manner. As a result, the platform can create asymmetric attack formations capable of challenging conventional naval defense systems. Developed with domestic hardware and national software architecture, the system also supports network-enabled operations.

The platform is designed to operate in different mission environments with line-of-sight and satellite communication options. With LOS and SATCOM support, YAKTU can be controlled from shore-based stations or from different platforms. Capable of operating day and night, the system provides rapid engagement against moving surface targets. Its range of more than 200 nautical miles enables the platform to carry out missions across a wide operational radius.

Technically, YAKTU is powered by one diesel main engine and one waterjet system. The platform can reach a continuous maximum speed of over 50 knots and operate at a service speed above 20 knots. At 20 knots, it offers a cruising range of approximately 200 nautical miles. Designed for one-way attack missions, YAKTU combines high maneuverability, compact structure and low signature characteristics to increase survivability during target approach.

Named after an old Turkic word meaning “light” and “brightness,” derived from the verb “to burn,” YAKTU represents STM’s new vision in autonomous naval systems. As the importance of unmanned and swarm-capable maritime platforms continues to grow in modern warfare, YAKTU stands out as a strategic solution that strengthens Türkiye’s national capabilities in this field. Introduced for the first time at SAHA 2026, YAKTU is set to become an important member of the next-generation kamikaze USV family that will enhance deterrence in the Blue Homeland.