Shipborne UAV technologies are advanced unmanned aerial vehicle systems designed to operate directly from naval platforms, significantly enhancing intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and defense capabilities at sea. These systems extend a ship’s situational awareness beyond the visible horizon, enabling early detection of surface and aerial threats while covering vast maritime areas in a short time. Considered a strategic force multiplier for modern navies, shipborne UAVs increase operational effectiveness by expanding the sensor reach of warships and supporting decision-making processes. Compared to manned aircraft, they offer lower operational costs, reduced risk to personnel, and continuous mission endurance, making them indispensable for contemporary maritime operations.

From a technical perspective, shipborne UAV systems typically consist of VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) fixed-wing or rotary-wing platforms capable of safe launch and recovery even under challenging sea conditions. These UAVs are equipped with EO/IR cameras, maritime surveillance radars, target detection sensors, and secure communication systems, allowing real-time data transmission to onboard command centers. Advanced variants can also perform electronic support, signal intelligence, and communication relay missions. The growing adoption of naval drone technologies worldwide is redefining maritime defense concepts, strengthening naval dominance, and shaping the future of sea-based warfare and security operations.