The TALAY UAV boasts interesting capabilities, allowing it to operate as close as 30 centimeters above sea level, a breakthrough that opens new tactical possibilities for defense operations at sea.
Speaking to Naval News at the exhibition, Selçuk Fırat, founder of Solid Aero, explained the unique design philosophy behind TALAY. “TALAY has a special wing design that allows it to take off over the sea,” he said. “It’s one of the few UAVs capable of executing low-altitude kamikaze attacks, much like sea-skimming missiles.”
With a wingspan of 2.60 meters and a fuselage length of 2 meters, TALAY was specifically developed to meet the operational demand for low-altitude flights over water. Its unique design and maneuverability allow it to take off from and fly over the sea with ease, enabling it to engage targets swiftly and silently. With a cruising altitude range of 3-5 meters and a maximum altitude of 150 meters, TALAY is optimized for versatility in maritime missions, providing a high-performance platform for reconnaissance, attack, and deterrence operations.
“TALAY is a weapon, but it’s also a versatile tool for reconnaissance and surveillance. Its ability to take off and land on water offers unparalleled flexibility, especially for platforms with limited air operation capabilities.”
Selçuk Fırat, Founder of Solid Aero
Silent and Swift Target Engagement
One of TALAY’s most striking features is its ability to fly at an extremely low altitude—only 30 centimeters above the water’s surface—rendering it nearly invisible to radar. This sea-skimming capability, combined with a top speed exceeding 200 kilometers per hour, allows TALAY to approach and engage naval targets faster than any traditional naval platform. TALAY’s stealth and speed make it ideal for surprise strikes against enemy vessels and coastal bases, bringing a new edge to maritime warfare.
With a three-hour flight endurance and a payload capacity of up to 30 kilograms, which is half of its total weight, TALAY offers flexibility across a range of missions. This payload capability enhances its functionality for various tasks, from surveillance and reconnaissance to direct attack and deterrence. TALAY’s potential applications make it a valuable asset for platforms with limited air operation capabilities, such as smaller ships and remote bases.
Currently undergoing system and flight tests, the electric model of TALAY is expected to complete development within three months. Solid Aero has also announced a collaboration with Turkish Engine Industries (TEI) to develop a domestically produced engine for a future maritime patrol model with a larger wingspan of 7 meters. This localized engine will enhance TALAY’s endurance and efficiency, further positioning it as a useful asset in maritime defense. Here is the promotional video of TALAY including the tests at sea:
