Türkiye has taken a major step forward in autonomous ground robotics with the introduction of PROTEO, a domestically developed four-legged military robot designed to support some of the most demanding operational tasks. Showcased during the final phase of the NATO Innovation Continuity Initiative—led by NATO Allied Command Transformation (NATO ACT)—PROTEO stood out as Türkiye’s answer to globally known “robot dog” platforms. The event, hosted at Istanbul Technical University (ITU) under the coordination of the Presidency of Defence Industries, gathered defense industry representatives, academia, and governmental institutions to accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge technologies across the alliance.

Developed by Hyperever, a young start-up operating within the ITU ARI Teknokent, PROTEO was engineered through extensive work in articulated robotics, embedded software, and autonomous control systems. The robot is designed to perform critical missions including reconnaissance, surveillance, logistical transportation, and explosive ordnance disposal. With its durable build, PROTEO can maneuver skillfully in difficult terrain, carry heavy loads, and operate autonomously, semi-autonomously, or manually with the support of advanced AI algorithms and GNSS-based navigation. These features make it a valuable force multiplier in challenging operational environments.

PROTEO’s capabilities reflect a strong emphasis on both versatility and mission survivability. The robot offers a payload capacity of up to 35 kilograms, a 4–6 hour operational endurance window, and sprint speeds reaching 12 km/h. Designed especially for high-risk areas such as urban combat zones, tunnels, and confined spaces, PROTEO enables military personnel to execute missions with reduced exposure to threats. Its modular platform also allows for the integration of various sensors, communication systems, and mission-specific equipment, making it adaptable for border surveillance, facility protection, and even civilian security operations.

Hyperever CEO Çayan Baykal emphasized the importance of taking part in a NATO-level innovation activity, noting that PROTEO successfully contributed to coastal security simulations by transmitting real-time imagery and mission data to command centers. Baykal highlighted the rapid progress made by the company in just 2.5 years, underscoring that the showcased robot was only the first prototype. He stated that the finalized, standards-compliant version of PROTEO is expected to be field-ready early next year. Baykal also emphasized their goal of transitioning to more advanced unmanned robotic systems by capitalizing on the engineering expertise gained through the PROTEO project.