Debuts at SAHA 2026
STM, a global leader in naval engineering and autonomous systems, has officially unveiled its next-generation Kamikaze Unmanned Surface Vehicle, the STM YAKTU KUSV, at SAHA 2026. Designed to redefine naval warfare with high-speed performance, a low-profile silhouette, and swarm operational capabilities, the KUSV marks a significant leap in maritime defense technology.
STM Savunma Teknolojileri Mühendislik ve Ticaret A.Ş., a leading Turkish defence engineering company, has unveiled its next-generation Kamikaze Unmanned Surface Vehicle (KUSV), marking a new era in maritime defence by combining its extensive experience in naval platforms with its advanced expertise in autonomous systems.
By integrating decades of expertise in naval platform development with advanced autonomous systems, STM has introduced a strategic solution for modern maritime security. Engineered to meet the asymmetric demands of today’s operational environments, ranging from port protection to open-sea engagements, the “STM YAKTU KUSV” delivers high-lethality performance through indigenous engineering and a speed exceeding 50 knots.
“A New Era of Swarm Technology in Naval Warfare”
Speaking at the launch, Özgür Güleryüz, General Manager of STM, stated:
« We are proud to unveil the YAKTU KUSV at SAHA 2026, a platform that reflects the synergy between our extensive experience in naval engineering and our advanced capabilities in autonomous systems.
This is more than a high-speed strike platform; it is a strategic force multiplier powered by AI-enabled autonomous architecture and swarm capabilities. By enabling coordinated multi-unit operations, the YAKTU can overwhelm defense systems through multi-vector engagements, offering a cost-effective, high-precision solution for penetrating modern defense layers. We remain committed to advancing autonomous technologies to the highest standards for global maritime security. »
High-Speed Precision and Engagement Capability
Optimized for precision strike missions against strategic surface targets, YAKTU features a compact 5.8-meter-long platform designed to minimize detectability. With a maximum speed exceeding 50 knots, the system enables rapid engagement of maneuvering surface targets. Its operational range exceeds 200 nautical miles, providing an extended operational envelope for diverse mission profiles.
The platform’s defining capability its swarm intelligence enables real-time data sharing and autonomous task allocation among multiple units. Developed with indigenous hardware and software architecture, YAKTU ensures uninterrupted network-centric warfare operations through both Line-of-Sight (LOS) and Satellite Communication (SATCOM), maintaining operational superiority in contested environments.
Named after the Ancient Turkic word for ‘light’ and ‘brilliance’—derived from the root verb ‘to ignite’—YAKTU is set to become the new striking force across international maritime domains, driven by its high-speed performance and an unwavering commitment to its target in all-weather, day-and-night conditions.
Operational Capabilities
- Swarm mission profile with coordinated multi-unit operations
- Autonomous navigation with AI-enabled mission execution
- One-way (kamikaze) strike capability
- High-speed engagement (50+ knots)
- Extended operational range (200 nautical miles)
- Day/night mission capability
- Network-centric operations via LOS and SATCOM
- Deployment from multiple platforms and coastal stations
- Low observability with compact, low-profile design
Technical Specifications
- Length Overall (LOA): 5.8 m
- Displacement: 1.7 t
- Maximum Continuous Speed: 50+ knots
- Service Speed: 20+ knots
- Range: 200 nm (@20 knots)
- Propulsion: 1 × Diesel Main Engine & 1 × Waterjet (WJ)
About STM
With over 35 years of experience, STM is a leading engineering and technology company developing advanced solutions in naval platforms, autonomous systems, command and control, and cybersecurity. Driven by innovation and strong engineering expertise, STM develops high-impact, scalable technologies for national and global security needs.
STM has officially debuted TENGİZ, the largest member of its Autonomous Unmanned Underwater Family, at SAHA-2026. Positioned as an Extra Large Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (XLUUV), TENGİZ is set to become a force multiplier in maritime defense with its flexible mission profile, heavy torpedo launch capability, smart loitering munition integration, and advanced autonomous features.
Özgür Güleryüz, General Manager of STM, stated that the company is merging its naval engineering expertise with advanced autonomous technologies to develop disruptive platforms for maritime security: “Our journey in autonomous unmanned underwater vehicles began with the high-precision STM NETA 300. Following the successful completion of NETA 300’s sea trials, we are now expanding this family with new medium and large-class members.”
SAHA 2026 International Defence & Aerospace Exhibition, organised by Türkiye’s and Europe’s largest industrial cluster, SAHA Istanbul, will take place from May 5–9, 2026, at the Istanbul Expo Centre.