The SANCAR Armed Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) was commissioned at a ceremony held at the HAVELSAN Technology Campus. During the event, which also included the inauguration of strategic technology centers within TUSAŞ and HAVELSAN, Türkiye’s digital and autonomous strength in defense was emphasized.
The Turkish defense industry has crossed another critical threshold in naval platforms and software-based technology hubs. Developed through the collaboration of HAVELSAN and Yonca Shipyard, SANCAR USV was officially inducted into the inventory of the Naval Forces at the ceremony.
Dr. Mehmet Akif Nacar: “ADVENT Is the Digital Manifestation of National Wisdom”
Delivering the opening speech of the ceremony, HAVELSAN General Manager Dr. Mehmet Akif Nacar highlighted the success of the indigenous combat management system ADVENT. Stating that ADVENT has become a brand exported to four continents, Nacar noted that strategic platforms such as TCG Anadolu and MİLGEM have been equipped with this digital infrastructure. He emphasized that the commissioned SANCAR USV and the newly inaugurated centers represent digital strongholds reflecting Türkiye’s “national wisdom” in the field.
Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün: “Europe’s Largest Simulation Base”
Speaking afterward, President of Defense Industries Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün addressed the significance of the Simulator Production and Integration Facility, whose foundation was laid in Kahramankazan, Ankara. Görgün stated that the facility, to be built on an area of 60,000 square meters, will become Europe’s largest simulation center. He added that more than 30 simulators will be produced annually at the facility, alongside the serial production of unmanned air, land, and naval vehicles.
President Erdoğan: “Full Independence in Digital Sovereignty”
In his closing remarks, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated that SANCAR USV will enhance operational capacity in the Blue Homeland. Emphasizing that dependence on foreign software and technology is unacceptable, Erdoğan said, “Those without national software cannot secure their future.” He noted that implementing the 3T (Detection, Diagnosis, Strike) strategy through domestic systems strengthens Türkiye’s deterrence.
Strategic Investments Commissioned
As part of the ceremony, the following facilities were inaugurated or had their foundations laid:
- KAAN Technology Center: Opened at the TUSAŞ campus as the software and cybersecurity hub of the National Combat Aircraft project.
- Naval Combat Management Systems Technology Center: Commissioned in Istanbul for the development of ADVENT systems.
- Simulator Production Facility: (Groundbreaking) HAVELSAN’s new production center in simulation technologies.
The ceremony was also attended by Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler, Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır, and Minister of Youth and Sports Osman Aşkın Bak.
Source: C4Defence
