STM has introduced YAKTU, its new-generation Kamikaze Unmanned Surface Vehicle, at SAHA EXPO 2026, marking a new step in Türkiye’s unmanned naval warfare capabilities.
Developed with national engineering resources, YAKTU is designed as a high-speed autonomous strike platform for asymmetric naval warfare. With its low silhouette, swarm operation capability and high-impact strike profile, the system is intended to support missions ranging from port defense to open-sea operations.
High-Speed Strike Platform for Naval Warfare
YAKTU is optimized for precision attacks against strategic surface targets. The platform has a compact structure with a 5.8-meter length and 1.7-ton displacement, making it harder to detect compared to larger naval platforms.
The system can reach speeds of more than 50 knots, allowing rapid engagement against moving maritime targets. At a service speed of over 20 knots, YAKTU has a range of more than 200 nautical miles, giving it a wide operational area for coastal defense, sea denial and high-risk strike missions.
Swarm Intelligence and Network-Centric Operations
One of YAKTU’s most important features is its swarm operation capability.
Multiple YAKTU vehicles can share data in real time, distribute tasks autonomously and approach targets from different directions. This makes the system suitable for coordinated saturation attacks against naval defense lines.
The platform was developed with indigenous hardware and national software architecture. It supports both line-of-sight communication and satellite communication, allowing network-enabled operations in different mission environments.
Day and Night Mission Capability
YAKTU can operate during both day and night missions. It can be launched from different platforms or deployed from coastal positions, providing operational flexibility for naval forces.
Its low-profile design, high speed and autonomous architecture make it suitable for asymmetric attack formations, coastal defense operations, port protection and offensive missions against high-value maritime targets.
YAKTU Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Length Overall | 5.8 m |
| Displacement | 1.7 tons |
| Maximum Continuous Speed | 50+ knots |
| Service Speed | 20+ knots |
| Range | 200 nautical miles at 20 knots |
| Propulsion | 1 diesel main engine + 1 waterjet |
STM: “A Strategic Force Multiplier”
STM General Manager Özgür Güleryüz stated that YAKTU combines STM’s engineering experience in naval platforms with its expertise in autonomous systems.
According to Güleryüz, YAKTU is not only a high-speed strike vehicle, but also a strategic force multiplier with its AI-supported autonomous architecture and swarm capability. He emphasized that multiple kamikaze USVs can act in coordination and pressure targets from different angles, offering a cost-effective and high-precision solution against modern naval defense systems.
Strategic Importance
YAKTU reflects the growing importance of unmanned surface strike systems in modern naval warfare.
Recent conflicts have shown that low-cost, autonomous and expendable naval systems can create serious pressure against larger and more expensive surface platforms. With YAKTU, STM is positioning Türkiye in this rapidly developing field by offering a compact, high-speed and swarm-capable kamikaze USV.
The system strengthens Türkiye’s unmanned naval portfolio and adds a new autonomous strike layer to the defense of the Blue Homeland.
