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Türkiye Relies on Sancar AUSV for Network-Centric Operations and Coastal Defense at NAVDEX 2025.
The NAVDEX 2025 exhibition in Abu Dhabi hosts the presentation of the Sancar AUSV, an autonomous surface vessel (USV) developed by Yonca Shipyard in collaboration with Havelsan for the Türkiye's Navy. Designed for surveillance and coastal defense missions, this USV integrates speed, autonomy, and armament capabilities suited to contemporary threats.
The SANCAR AUSV is capable of mission transfer between ships, conducting network-centric operations with both manned and unmanned platforms, and adapting to swarm operations (Picture source: Army Recognition)
Developed by Türkiye's companies Havelsan and Yonca-Onuk, the SANCAR AUSV is compatible with network-centric operations. Launched in June 2022, it completed its first phase of sea trials in September 2022. Equipped with an uninterrupted communication infrastructure based on RF/GSM/SAT systems, it can conduct operations over long distances. It is the first autonomous system to use the ADVENT ROTA mission system, allowing it to be controlled from a mobile ground control station equipped with the ADVENT C4ISR mission system, which complies with NATO interoperability standards. It can also be deployed on other naval platforms utilizing ADVENT.
With a length of 12.73 m and a width of 3.33 m, the Sancar AUSV has a full load displacement of 10 tons. It is powered by a diesel system comprising two 480-horsepower engines coupled with two water jets, enabling a maximum speed of 40 knots. With an endurance of 70 hours and an operational range of 450 nautical miles, it is designed for prolonged operations in sensitive maritime areas.
Its primary armament includes a remotely operated 12 mm turret and short-range surface-to-surface missiles. It is also equipped with a side scan sonar, enhancing its surveillance and underwater detection capabilities. In terms of communication, it features an RF LoS system along with SATCOM connectivity in Ku and L bands, ensuring continuous linkage with its command center.
The SANCAR AUSV is capable of mission transfer between ships, conducting network-centric operations with both manned and unmanned platforms, and adapting to swarm operations. These features differentiate it technologically from other autonomous systems.
Designed for port and base protection, search and rescue, intelligence gathering, reconnaissance, surveillance, patrol, surface warfare, and mine countermeasures, the SANCAR AUSV reduces operational risks for personnel and allows cost-effective mission execution through modular payloads. It is positioned as a highly adaptable platform suited for modern naval operations.
According to Yavuz Uras, General Manager of Yonca-Onuk Shipyard, in an interview with Janes, the Sancar prototype, developed in partnership with Havelsan for the Türkiye's Navy, is currently in the final phase of sea acceptance trials for its autonomous systems, which began in January. The November 2022 edition of MarineDeal News also references statements by Uras regarding this project.
Yonca-Onuk Shipyard has signed multiple contracts with Türkiye for the delivery of military vessels. It has notably supplied two MRTP24/U Yeni SAT Botu units and eight MRTP12 Süratli Devriye Botu units to the Türkiye's Navy. This cooperation highlights the company’s involvement in Türkiye’s defense maritime industry.
The presentation of the Sancar AUSV at NAVDEX 2025 underscores Türkiye’s focus on autonomous naval systems. Yonca Shipyard positions itself as a key player in maritime development. According to Janes, the ongoing development of a larger 22 m version, based on the MRTP 20 fast patrol boat design, along with studies on smaller variants ranging from 6 to 7 m, aligns the Sancar AUSV with an expansion strategy aimed at diversifying the Türkiye's Navy’s capabilities and attracting international clients.