New Striking Element in Naval Warfare Launched
The autonomous and swarm-capable TUFAN Kamikaze Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV), developed by ASELSAN for maritime defense, met the water for the first time at the TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan event. The platform was introduced to the public with a flotation demonstration held in the Gulf of İzmit. TUFAN stands out with its high speed, long range and artificial intelligence-supported autonomous capabilities. Kantan Video · Footage: DHA
TUFAN, which can be launched from the shore or manned military vessels and sent to the area of operations, provides a cost-effective solution for asymmetric warfare scenarios. The unmanned surface vessel, which has a low radar cross-section and low thermal signature, offers critical deterrence against surface targets with its insensitive high-explosive warhead.
Technical Specifications and Performance Data
The TUFAN Kamikaze USV, exhibited by ASELSAN, which has also begun its serial production, stands out with its technical infrastructure. The platform’s main physical and operational data are as follows:
Hull Dimensions: 8 meters in length and 1.8 meters in width
Top Speed: Approximately 92.6 km/h (50 knots)
Range: 370.4 kilometers (200 nautical miles)
Propulsion System: A gasoline engine with a water-jet mechanism
Communications Infrastructure: RF line of sight, satellite communications and 4G/LTE channels
AI-Powered Swarm Attack Capability
The system, powered by artificial intelligence-supported hardware, can autonomously plan its route. The vehicle, which detects moving or stationary obstacles, can perform autonomous maneuvers to avoid them. The platform, which can continue its mission in environments where GNSS and communications capabilities are limited, carries out target recognition, target selection and target analysis processes through intelligent software.
In the swarm concept, in which multiple TUFANs take part in an operation simultaneously, the platforms can form subgroups among themselves and switch to asymmetric attack formations. While its multiple-attack capability makes it more difficult for the opposing side’s defense systems to establish an engagement, it also creates an element of surprise.
TUFAN can carry out attacks in rapid succession and in swarms. Multiple attacks create a significant impact on the opposing side.
This system, which can reach high speeds and carry large quantities of explosives, will be used effectively by our Naval Forces.
Entry into the Inventory and Production Process
Officials stated that infrastructure for high-volume production had been established at the new facilities, that serial production of TUFAN had begun, and that deliveries to the Turkish Naval Forces would be carried out in stages. It is reported that the platforms, which can be launched without endangering military personnel, offer more flexible deployment options compared with conventional naval assets.