“Game-Changing SANCAR Drone Boat Completes Final Trials, Ready for Action with Security Teams”

SANCAR, the Uncrewed Autonomous Surface Vehicle (AUSV) designed by HAVELSAN—one of Türkiye’s leading defense technology enterprises—has successfully completed its acceptance procedures following firing assessments. Now ready to support the nation’s security forces, SANCAR is set to be transferred to its designated unit.

Acceptance Assessments Successfully Concluded

Offering insights into the evaluation campaign, HAVELSAN General Manager Dr. Mehmet Akif Nacar remarked that the acceptance assessments were successfully completed last week:

“We are co-developing our SANCAR AUSV in partnership with Yonca Shipyard. We effectively executed its firing evaluations. The platform integrates five of HAVELSAN’s proprietary solutions. Most notably, there is ADVENT Rota, a command-and-control mission management software that incorporates the Turkish Navy’s ADVENT combat management system into autonomous platforms. Additionally, our SUBSTAR Ship Data Distribution System (GVDS), the BLUEVISION autonomous navigation system, and the GNSS–KASK precision satellite positioning solution are all featured on SANCAR.”

HAVELSAN’s Robust Foundation

Dr. Nacar emphasized that SANCAR is not only merged with ADVENT but can also operate as a standalone platform:

“We have a solid command, control, and mission management capability. Moreover, we can integrate these five indigenous products into alternative platforms to enhance their autonomy. In other words, it doesn’t have to be this platform—we’re ready today to equip any suitable platform with autonomy.”

Referring to the recent live-fire exercises, Dr. Nacar noted that the 12.7 mm remote-controlled weapon system successfully engaged targets, confirming that, with acceptance completed, serial production will enable the delivery of additional SANCAR units to the security forces.

Vast Potential for Military and Civil Applications

Dr. Nacar also highlighted the civilian applications of SANCAR, in addition to its military usage, indicating that logistics and other non-combat operations could be facilitated by such vessels.

Technical Attributes of SANCAR

SANCAR stands out with its advanced technical specifications. Measuring 12.7 meters in length and 3.3 meters in width with a displacement of 9 tons, the platform utilizes twin diesel engines with twin waterjets to achieve speeds exceeding 40 knots. It offers a range of 400 nautical miles at 10 knots and is capable of operating in Sea State 4.

Onboard systems include radar, sonar, electro-optical cameras, Automatic Identification System (AIS), 360-degree surveillance cameras, depth sounder, GPS compass, and GNSS-assisted navigation. COLREG-compliant autonomous navigation ensures safe maneuverability in complex maritime scenarios.

SANCAR supports modular payloads, including a 12.7 mm Remote-Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS), tactical missile systems, and mine countermeasure (MCM) payloads. A mobile ground control station enables rapid deployment and portability, while redundant RF, satellite, and LTE communications ensure seamless, resilient command-and-control—positioning SANCAR as a vital asset in the inventory.

Next-Generation Features and NATO Compatibility

With its engagement capabilities, mine detection skills, and autonomous mission functions, SANCAR is the first and only AUSV fully integrated with HAVELSAN’s ADVENT Combat Management System. Recognized for its role in mine countermeasure missions, SANCAR can launch from state-of-the-art mine countermeasure vessels and perform independent operations—providing a significant operational advantage.

Ongoing software improvements aligned with NATO Interoperability Standards will further broaden the platform’s international appeal.

Future Innovations from HAVELSAN

As the initial member of HAVELSAN’s unmanned surface vehicle collection, SANCAR is set to be joined by new solutions catering to both military and civilian markets, thereby expanding the company’s array of autonomous maritime solutions.