Turkey has indeed introduced an unmanned vessel called “ULAQ” (Unmanned Surface Vehicle). ULAQ is an autonomous naval platform designed and developed by Turkish defense contractor ARES Shipyard in collaboration with other domestic defense industry companies. The ULAQ is a fast attack craft that can operate remotely or autonomously, providing capabilities for surveillance, reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and offensive operations.
The ULAQ is equipped with advanced sensors, communication systems, and weapon systems, allowing it to operate in various maritime environments. It can be armed with anti-ship missiles, surface-to-air missiles, and machine guns, enabling it to engage targets effectively. The vessel has a modular design that allows for flexibility and customization based on mission requirements.
The introduction of ULAQ demonstrates Turkey’s efforts to develop indigenous unmanned systems and strengthen its naval capabilities. Unmanned vessels like ULAQ have the potential to enhance naval operations, increase operational range, reduce risks to human personnel, and provide cost-effective solutions for maritime defense and security.
It’s worth noting that the development and deployment of unmanned systems, including unmanned vessels, are ongoing processes, and their capabilities and operational effectiveness will continue to evolve as technology advances and operational requirements are addressed.
The Turkish Defense Agency (SSB) has unveiled its new unmanned surface vessel, the “ULAQ.”
A video released by the agency shows the ship’s upgraded features, including a new configuration for anti-submarine w4rf4re (ASW).
The ULAQ also has a new locally-made propulsion system to increase the vehicle’s speed, particularly in littoral waters.
According to SSB head Ismail Demir, the Turkish military plans to conduct 90 percent of production domestically to support the local defense industry.
“We are equipping ULAQ with new capabilities, making it fully autonomous and developing it so that it can conduct anti-submarine w4rf4re,” he explained.
Apart from the ASW and propulsion systems, the ULAQ will be fitted with an updated engine, 12.7-millimeter remote-controlled w34pon station, torpedoes, communication system, and sonar system.
Additional Features
Developed by ARES Shipyard and Meteksan Defence, the ULAQ is Turkey’s first unmanned surface vessel.
It can travel at 65 kilometers (40 miles) per hour with a range of up to 400 kilometers (248 miles).
According to an SSB video, the ship features a light, durable composite hull that can withstand harsh sea conditions.
It also has enhanced vision and navigation, thanks to a LIDAR (light detection and ranging) wide-angle navigation camera, radar, and electro-optical system.
The nearly 2-minute clip suggests several w34pons and sensor configurations, such as a tactical missile control system, towed array sonar, and ASW rockets.
