Ankara: Trkiye has announced the successful development of a new automated system for its Marlin unmanned surface vessel (USV), enabling it to remotely lay sea mines using electronic software. The Turkish Strategic Systems Research Center (TSRC) revealed that the Marlin, which will enter service with the Turkish Navy in 2024, has been upgraded to incorporate several features developed within the Turkish defense industry.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the TSRC stated in a press release that, in collaboration with Ko§ Defense, the Marlin has autonomously and remotely deployed the locally produced smart sea mine, Malaman. The Marlin is equipped with specialized algorithms that support autonomous or remotely controlled mine-laying, combined with mission planning interfaces.

The research center highlighted that the Marlin’s new capability marks significant progress in sea mine-laying operations. With this technological advancement, Turkey positions itself among the few countries with the ability to lay mines using unmanned surface vessels. This new capability is expected to provide the Turkish Navy with enhanced speed, reduced risk, operational flexibility, and a high level of stealth in future operations.