Havelsan is pushing the boundaries of naval autonomy, and the maritime world is watching. The Turkish defense company’s latest move—integrating fixed-wing VTOL drones with ships and unmanned surface vessels—is a game-changer for surveillance, reconnaissance, and intelligence gathering at sea. This isn’t just about adding drones to a ship; it’s about redefining how naval forces operate, extending reach, and reducing risk for crews.
The drones—BAHA, BOZBEY, and BULUT—are designed for modern military needs, with runway-independent vertical takeoff and landing, full autonomous mission capabilities, and modular architecture. They can operate day and night, in cloudy conditions, performing reconnaissance, target marking, and intelligence gathering while accommodating various payloads. Recent tests have confirmed their ability to work alongside ships and unmanned surface vessels, a critical step in proving their operational viability.
Havelsan’s first maritime contract for fixed-wing VTOL drones is a significant milestone. The company signed an agreement with DESAN Shipyard to deploy the BOZBEY drone on a 99-meter multipurpose mission ship supplied to Malaysia’s Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA). The project aims to enhance the ship’s long-range reconnaissance and surveillance, boosting its intelligence deterrence. BOZBEY will be capable of precise takeoff and landing on the ship, transmitting live images and coordinates even beyond the vessel’s line of sight.
This integration extends operational reach, allowing reconnaissance, surveillance, and intelligence collection far from shore. Fully autonomous capabilities reduce crew workload and accelerate decision-making during complex operations. Modular designs allow for mission-specific sensor and payload customization, making these drones adaptable to a wide range of scenarios.
Havelsan’s command-and-control system enables drones to operate in coordination with unmanned maritime vehicles and other platforms, increasing operational efficiency. Sub-cloud operational capability allows missions in light rain or snow, offering an advantage in variable maritime weather. Drones can scan wide areas independently for coastal and border security, assist in disaster zones inaccessible by traditional transport, and support rapid response in search-and-rescue operations. Electronic warfare-resistant systems enhance operational reliability against maritime threats. The ability to transfer drones between control stations ensures sustained operations during extended missions, particularly for long-range maritime deployments.
This development is a clear signal that the future of naval operations lies in autonomy and integration. As Havelsan’s drones prove their worth in real-world scenarios, other navies and maritime agencies will likely take notice. The question is no longer whether autonomy will shape the future of maritime operations, but how quickly the industry can adapt to this new reality. The race is on, and Havelsan is leading the charge.