Türkiye’s defense sector is expanding its footprint in the global maritime technology market by advancing its autonomous surface vessel capabilities. Building on the experience gained from the SANCAR Armed Unmanned Surface Vehicle (SİDA), developed in partnership with Yonca Shipyard, HAVELSAN has added a new platform to its Unmanned Naval Systems Product Family. This time, the focus is on Rafnar boats—internationally known for their exceptional seaworthiness and ÖK Hull design—produced by VN Maritime (Rafnar Türkiye).

Through advanced autonomy software, command systems and sensor integration, HAVELSAN has transformed Rafnar boats into fully autonomous and remotely operable maritime platforms. These vessels, widely used across Northern Europe due to their high stability in rough sea conditions, will now be capable of performing a wide range of civilian and security missions. These include fish detection, maritime research, coastal surveillance, port security, critical facility protection and reconnaissance tasks—either with onboard personnel or entirely unmanned.

The newly integrated autonomy architecture developed by HAVELSAN features sensor fusion, collision avoidance algorithms, route optimization and secure command-and-control networks. Radar, LiDAR, EO cameras, navigation systems and specialized mission payloads will also be integrated, enabling the vessels to operate not only by remote control but also with HAVELSAN’s AI-assisted mission intelligence for independent, decision-supported navigation.

The foundation of this technological expansion was laid with the SANCAR SİDA program developed for the Turkish Navy. With proven ADVENT Combat Management System integration and advanced autonomy capabilities, HAVELSAN is now positioned to build a diverse portfolio of unmanned maritime platforms tailored for both military and civilian applications.

Under the partnership with VN Maritime, the initial focus will be civilian solutions for the European market. However, subsequent phases will include military applications such as base protection, port security and naval reconnaissance. This strategic collaboration aims to strengthen Türkiye’s presence in the global unmanned maritime systems market and significantly boost exports of advanced autonomous naval technologies.