Türkiye’s maritime defense capabilities are set to expand with the addition of two new unmanned platforms from the ULAQ family, developed jointly by ARES Shipyard and Meteksan Defence. The 12-meter-long ULAQ 12 ASuW (Anti-Surface Warfare) USV features a 12.7mm remote-controlled weapon station, Roketsan’s tactical missile control system, and the ability to fire laser-guided missiles, providing effective engagement capabilities against surface threats. Having successfully completed its initial tests, the vessel is now in the final testing phase before entering service with the Turkish Naval Forces later this year.

Another standout addition is the ULAQ KAMA, an expendable (kamikaze-type) unmanned surface vehicle designed for high-risk, precision strike missions. Its explosive payload, engineered by MKE (Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation), utilizes an insensitive explosive material that ensures high safety — remaining stable even under shrapnel impact or direct gunfire. After passing a series of detonation and safety tests on land, ULAQ KAMA is also scheduled to join the naval inventory within the year.

Both systems reinforce the modular and network-centric architecture of the ULAQ series. With Roketsan’s integrated Tactical Missile Control System, the ULAQ 12 ASuW can conduct long-range precision strikes remotely, support anti-submarine warfare missions, and adapt to multiple sensor and weapon configurations. Meanwhile, the expendable ULAQ KAMA is optimized for swarm tactics, allowing multiple units to coordinate and attack surface or coastal targets simultaneously, providing high scalability and operational flexibility.

The induction of these new platforms aligns with the Turkish Navy’s “Blue Homeland” doctrine, enhancing maritime surveillance, coastal defense, and deterrence through autonomous systems. With their low operational cost, human risk reduction, and mission versatility, ULAQ USVs are expected to play critical roles in patrol, escort, harbor defense, and surface warfare missions. Additionally, given the export success of earlier ULAQ variants, the 12 ASuW and KAMA models are poised to attract significant international interest in the coming period.