Istanbul: Turkish defense and software company Havelsan unveiled its latest unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), BULUT, which is expected to play a key role in swarm drone operations, a company official told Anadolu. Speaking at the International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF) 2025, Havelsan's Product Development Director Veysel Ataoglu shared insights into the drone's capabilities and its integration into the Turkish Armed Forces' inventory.
According to Anadolu Agency, the BULUT is part of Havelsan's long-term 'Digital Unity' concept, which aims to integrate various unmanned systems for coordinated operations. The UAV is designed to fly in swarm formations and execute coordinated strikes, providing a tactical advantage. Ataoglu highlighted that the BULUT has a range of 80 kilometers, extendable to between 120 and 150 kilometers, and can conduct missions such as surveillance and reconnaissance for up to 8 hours at altitudes from 100 to 4,000 meters.
Ataoglu explained that the entrance of BULUT into the inventory led to an expanded scope of operational needs, prompting a focus on kamikaze-style drones and communication relays. The primary goal is to enhance operational capabilities through image processing and remote control, with plans to implement this concept as a first in Trkiye.
The BULUT will soon demonstrate its capabilities in real-world operations, offering distinct operational capabilities by acting as a communication relay and part of a swarm attack. Ataoglu emphasized the importance of these systems in responding to the Turkish Armed Forces' requests and enhancing electronic warfare capabilities to counter enemy countermeasures.
The UAV's design allows for independent operation without reliance on GPS, enabling missions in various weather conditions and terrains. The compact ground control station facilitates launches from any location, not requiring a fixed control center or runway.
The system's software capabilities are a critical factor, allowing operations without restrictions. Ataoglu stressed the significance of BULUT in easing the work of security forces, providing dynamic monitoring over large areas, and enabling rapid deployment for instantaneous missions.
IDEF 2025 has drawn considerable international interest, showcasing Trkiye's defense industry advancements. Havelsan is in talks with several countries and plans to announce new export deals following the fair. The event, supported by Trkiye's Defense Industries Secretariat and the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation, hosts delegations from 103 countries and over 1,300 defense firms.