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Turkish Navy Deploys ULAQ KAMA and ULAQ 12 ASuW Autonomous Drones to Enhance Anti-Surface and Submarine Warfare.
In an article published on March 3, 2025, Anadolu Ajansi reported that the Turkish Navy is set to integrate two new autonomous surface drones into its arsenal, the ULAQ KAMA and ULAQ 12 ASuW, developed jointly by ARES Shipyard and Meteksan Defense. These unmanned systems are designed to enhance the country’s maritime capabilities as part of an accelerated defense modernization effort. Their roles extend from anti-surface warfare to submarine warfare, including reconnaissance missions and support for conventional naval units.
The ULAQ KAMA algorithm enables it to identify and engage targets autonomously, even in environments where electronic warfare countermeasures disrupt communication (Picture source: Army Recognition)
The ULAQ 12 ASuW, a 12-meter-long surface drone, is specifically designed for anti-surface warfare. It is equipped with a remotely operated weapon station featuring a 12.7 mm cannon and Roketsan’s Tactical Missile Control System, capable of launching laser-guided missiles. This configuration provides precision strike capabilities optimized for engaging maritime and coastal targets. Following a successful initial test phase, including firing and autonomy trials, this surface drone is expected to become operational in the first quarter of 2025 after a second series of trials focusing on its integration into the command-and-control systems of the Turkish Navy. Its deployment represents a significant step in integrating armed autonomous systems within the naval forces, reducing the exposure of personnel to operational risks at sea.
Simultaneously, the ULAQ KAMA, a kamikaze surface drone, will strengthen the Turkish fleet’s offensive capabilities. This 6.5-meter-long vessel carries a 200-kilogram explosive payload specifically designed to target strategic objectives such as enemy vessels and port infrastructure. Developed in collaboration with the defense company MKE, it features an advanced target selection system. Its algorithm enables it to identify and engage targets autonomously, even in environments where electronic warfare countermeasures disrupt communication. Unlike kamikaze drones used in other conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, the ULAQ KAMA has enhanced autonomy and optimized navigation, allowing it to operate covertly in contested areas. Its explosive payload is based on insensitive munitions, ensuring resistance to enemy fire and preventing premature detonation in the event of bullet or shrapnel impact.
ARES Shipyard General Manager Oguzhan Pehlivanli emphasized the strategic significance of these new systems in modern naval operations. He stated that the increasing adoption of autonomous systems is reshaping the dynamics of warfare, with unmanned platforms playing a critical role in reducing risks to personnel and improving operational efficiency. He also highlighted the ULAQ KAMA’s reduced radar signature, which increases its ability to reach targets without being detected by enemy radar systems.
Pehlivanli also noted that similar kamikaze platforms in other conflicts, such as in Ukraine, are often neutralized before reaching their targets. To address this, the ULAQ KAMA has been designed with a lower radar signature and a specialized explosive developed by MKE, ensuring that even if hit by bullets or shrapnel, it remains operational. He stressed that its advanced target selection and engagement capability, even in jamming conditions, is a unique feature not found in other platforms worldwide.
The imminent deployment of these drones coincides with increasing international demand for ULAQ systems. Following an initial export to Qatar, ARES Shipyard and Meteksan Defense are in discussions with multiple countries for potential sales. This growing interest reflects the effectiveness and reliability of these autonomous systems in meeting the evolving needs of modern navies. Program officials expect to finalize several international contracts within the year, further solidifying Türkiye’s position in the emerging sector of armed naval drones. The success of ULAQ could also lead to future technological advancements, particularly in the development of more sophisticated surface drones with increased autonomy and advanced artificial intelligence capabilities.
Pehlivanli concluded by noting that demand for ULAQ SİDA systems is rapidly growing. He mentioned that numerous countries and organizations have expressed interest in these drones and that further export agreements are expected to be announced within the year. He also highlighted that autonomous systems are redefining modern naval warfare by reducing risks to personnel while ensuring operational effectiveness. The integration of ULAQ 12 ASuW and ULAQ KAMA into the Turkish Navy represents a step toward a more autonomous and technologically advanced fleet.