HAVELSAN, in partnership with Yonca Shipyard, has confirmed the successful completion of live-fire trials for the SANCAR Armed Unmanned Surface Vehicle (AUSV). The tests, carried out in the Marmara Sea with the participation of representatives from the Turkish Naval Forces Command, demonstrated the platform’s ability to accurately engage targets using its 12.7 mm Stabilized Weapon System. The system was fully integrated through ADVENT ROTA and executed via the ADVENT Combat Management System (CMS).
Strengthening Autonomous Naval Capabilities
The live-fire trials mark a significant milestone for Türkiye’s defense industry. SANCAR is now the first and only armed USV fully integrated with ADVENT, delivering capabilities that include real-time target engagement, mine detection, and autonomous mission execution. This development reflects HAVELSAN’s focus on combining network-enabled warfare with advanced autonomous technologies, bringing a proven, operationally ready platform into the service of modern navies.
Designed for Multi-Mission Operations
Built to address today’s dynamic maritime security environment, SANCAR AUSV is designed for versatility. It can undertake a range of missions including:
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Protection of bases and ports
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Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR)
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Mine countermeasure operations
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Search and rescue missions
The platform’s advanced sensor suite, featuring navigation radar, AIS, electro-optical cameras, sonar, and 360° surveillance systems, ensures situational awareness and reliable decision support in high-risk areas.
ADVENT ROTA Integration
At the core of SANCAR is ADVENT ROTA, derived from HAVELSAN’s widely deployed ADVENT CMS and tailored specifically for unmanned systems. This architecture enables seamless interoperability with the Turkish Naval Forces’ assets, supporting joint operations between manned and unmanned platforms. The system has already proven its value in scenarios such as task handover, swarm operations, and coordinated strikes, making it a practical demonstration of network-centric warfare through unmanned naval assets.
Flexible and Scalable Payloads
SANCAR’s open architecture allows for rapid adaptation to mission requirements. Options include:
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12.7 mm remote-controlled weapon system (validated during trials)
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Guided missile payloads for deterrence
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Sonar and mine countermeasure systems for subsurface threats
Technical Specifications
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Length: 12.7 m | Beam: 3.3 m | Displacement: 9 tons
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Propulsion: 2× diesel engines, 2× waterjets
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Maximum speed: >40 knots | Endurance: 400 nm at 10 knots
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Seaworthiness: Operable up to Sea State 4
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Control: Modular portable ground control station
A Force Multiplier for Global Navies
With autonomous capability, scalable payloads, and NATO-compliant communications, SANCAR AUSV is positioned as a force multiplier for modern naval operations. Its cost efficiency, operational flexibility, and tested performance make it a valuable addition for both national and allied fleets, addressing the demands of today while preparing for future challenges.
