STM has unveiled its next-generation Kamikaze Unmanned Surface Vehicle, the STM YAKTU KUSV, at SAHA 2026. Designed to redefine naval warfare with high-speed performance, a low-profile silhouette, and swarm operational capabilities, the KUSV marks a significant leap in maritime defense technology.
STM press release
STM Savunma Teknolojileri Mühendislik ve Ticaret A.Ş., a leading Turkish defence engineering company, has unveiled its next-generation Kamikaze Unmanned Surface Vehicle (KUSV), marking a new era in maritime defence by combining its extensive experience in naval platforms with its advanced expertise in autonomous systems.
By integrating decades of expertise in naval platform development with advanced autonomous systems, STM has introduced a strategic solution for modern maritime security. Engineered to meet the asymmetric demands of today’s operational environments, ranging from port protection to open-sea engagements, the “STM YAKTU KUSV” delivers high-lethality performance through indigenous engineering and a speed exceeding 50 knots.
“A New Era of Swarm Technology in Naval Warfare”
Speaking at the launch, Özgür Güleryüz, General Manager of STM, stated:
“We are proud to unveil the YAKTU KUSV at SAHA 2026, a platform that reflects the synergy between our extensive experience in naval engineering and our advanced capabilities in autonomous systems.
This is more than a high-speed strike platform; it is a strategic force multiplier powered by AI-enabled autonomous architecture and swarm capabilities. By enabling coordinated multi-unit operations, the YAKTU can overwhelm defense systems through multi-vector engagements, offering a cost-effective, high-precision solution for penetrating modern defense layers. We remain committed to advancing autonomous technologies to the highest standards for global maritime security.”
High-Speed Precision and Engagement Capability
Optimized for precision strike missions against strategic surface targets, YAKTU features a compact 5.8-meter-long platform designed to minimize detectability. With a maximum speed exceeding 50 knots, the system enables rapid engagement of maneuvering surface targets. Its operational range exceeds 200 nautical miles, providing an extended operational envelope for diverse mission profiles.
The platform’s defining capability its swarm intelligence enables real-time data sharing and autonomous task allocation among multiple units. Developed with indigenous hardware and software architecture, YAKTU ensures uninterrupted network-centric warfare operations through both Line-of-Sight (LOS) and Satellite Communication (SATCOM), maintaining operational superiority in contested environments.
Named after the Ancient Turkic word for ‘light’ and ‘brilliance’—derived from the root verb ‘to ignite’—YAKTU is set to become the new striking force across international maritime domains, driven by its high-speed performance and an unwavering commitment to its target in all-weather, day-and-night conditions.
Operational Capabilities
- Swarm mission profile with coordinated multi-unit operations
- Autonomous navigation with AI-enabled mission execution
- One-way (kamikaze) strike capability
- High-speed engagement (50+ knots)
- Extended operational range (200 nautical miles)
- Day/night mission capability
- Network-centric operations via LOS and SATCOM
- Deployment from multiple platforms and coastal stations
- Low observability with compact, low-profile design
Technical Specifications
- Length Overall (LOA): 5.8 m
- Displacement: 1.7 t
- Maximum Continuous Speed: 50+ knots
- Service Speed: 20+ knots
- Range: 200 nm (@20 knots)
- Propulsion: 1 × Diesel Main Engine & 1 × Waterjet (WJ)
