HAVELSAN to equip over 10 Indonesian warships with ADVENT Combat Management System

At the Indo Defence 2025 exhibition, held in Jakarta from June 11 to 14, Turkish defense technology company HAVELSAN showcased its latest naval solutions. During the event, Mr. Şevket Ünal, HAVELSAN’s Vice President of International Business Development, spoke with Naval News and shared insights into the company’s ongoing projects and its growing involvement in Indonesia’s defense sector.

At the Indo Defence 2025 exhibition held in Jakarta, HAVELSAN, one of Türkiye’s leading defense technology companies, presented its naval systems, underscoring its commitment to supporting Indonesia’s defense modernization. With a growing presence in Southeast Asia since 2018, HAVELSAN continues to position itself as a strategic partner in the region, not just through product offerings, but by fostering long-term collaboration, enabling technology transfer, and contributing to local capability development.

In an exclusive interview with Naval News, Mr. Şevket Ünal, HAVELSAN’s Vice President of International Business Development, shared insights into the company’s strategic objectives in Indonesia, the integration of the ADVENT Combat Management System into Indonesian Navy platforms, and the future trajectory of ADVENT.

Naval News: What is the strategic significance of HAVELSAN’s participation in the Indo Defence exhibition?

Mr. Şevket Ünal: Indo Defense is one of the most prestigious defense industry exhibitions in Southeast Asia. Since 2018, HAVELSAN has been actively participating in this platform to reinforce our strategic presence in the region. Indonesia holds substantial potential in terms of maritime security, digital transformation, and defense technology. Our presence here is not just about showcasing products—it’s about establishing long-term strategic partnerships, enabling technology transfer, and fostering sustainable cooperation. For us, Indo Defense is more than a trade show; it’s a strategic platform for cultivating impactful relationships.

Naval News: Could you elaborate on HAVELSAN’s role in the ongoing cooperation with the Indonesian Navy?

Mr. Şevket Ünal: Our collaboration with the Indonesian Navy encompasses a range of initiatives, including the integration of ADVENT Combat Management System into newly constructed warships via local shipyards. Additionally, we are involved in the modernization of existing naval platforms, upgrading their command-and-control capabilities. To date, over 10 naval platforms have been equipped with ADVENT. These integrations not only enhance tactical capabilities but also contribute to Indonesia’s broader digital defense transformation strategy.

Naval News: How do you evaluate ADVENT’s position in the global defense market, and what makes it unique?

Mr. Şevket Ünal: ADVENT is currently deployed across naval platforms in 9 different countries, making it one of the most advanced combat management systems exported by Türkiye. Its strength lies in its network-centric architecture, role-based access, open system design, and multi-platform interoperability. This flexibility allows rapid adaptation to user-specific needs and ensures seamless coordination in joint operations with allied forces. ADVENT is not merely a product—it represents a comprehensive defense philosophy rooted in adaptability, integration, and forward-looking capability.

Naval News: What role does artificial intelligence play in the future vision of ADVENT?

Mr. Şevket Ünal: Artificial intelligence is a pivotal component of ADVENT’s evolution. Through intensified R&D efforts, we are transforming ADVENT from a system that simply aggregates data into one that interprets and acts upon it. AI-enhanced ADVENT supports real-time threat analysis, scenario generation, resource optimization, and decision support. It provides commanders with not just data, but intelligent suggestions and options, enabling faster and more accurate decision-making under pressure. It is essentially becoming a digital mind that enhances operational effectiveness and mission readiness.

Naval News: What new capabilities are you presenting at Indo Defence 2025, and what is the long-term roadmap for ADVENT?

Mr. Şevket Ünal: At Indo Defence 2025, we are showcasing the latest AI-integrated modules of ADVENT. These include not only operational enhancements but also smart maintenance tools, digital assistants, and simulation-based training support. Visitors can experience these innovations firsthand through live demos and interactive displays. Looking ahead, ADVENT will continue to evolve in areas such as modularity, multi-platform integration, enhanced cybersecurity, and greater interoperability with international naval forces. Our mission is to position ADVENT not just as a system of today, but as an indispensable backbone of the navies of the future.