Türkiye develops AI-powered drone capable of flying without GPS

Türkiye has developed an advanced drone infrastructure capable of operating without GPS, a first in its defense industry.

The system, which integrates artificial intelligence (AI) for navigation in GPS-denied environments, has been incorporated into the TOGAN tactical drone, according to Ozgur Guleryuz, general manager of STM, a leading Turkish defense company.

Türkiye’s TOGAN drone: A game-changer in GPS-denied environments

Guleryuz explained that Türkiye’s Presidency of Defense Industry (SSB) tasked STM with developing GPS-independent drone technology under the KERKES Project.

“We have developed an infrastructure that allows drones to process visual data and navigate using artificial intelligence without GPS. This system has now been integrated into TOGAN. It may be the world’s only tactical drone capable of flying in GPS-denied environments,” he said.

Guleryuz also highlighted efforts to enhance KARGU, Türkiye’s kamikaze drone, which has been exported to 10 countries with over 3,000 units produced. He confirmed that armor-piercing warhead tests have been completed and that swarm attack capabilities are being developed for electronic warfare scenarios.

Cybersecurity for KAAN: Protecting Türkiye’s next-generation fighter jet

STM is also playing a key role in the cybersecurity of Türkiye’s KAAN national combat aircraft, working alongside TAI and Havelsan.

“KAAN will be a highly advanced platform with sophisticated sensors and communication systems. From the earliest stages of its design, cybersecurity measures have been prioritized,” Guleryuz stated, adding that similar security protocols apply to naval platforms.

Additionally, STM is working on the second phase of establishing a cyber defense center for the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF).

Türkiye signs major warship deal with Portugal

STM recently signed a warship production agreement with Portugal, marking a milestone in Türkiye’s naval exports.

“The negotiations took two years. Initially, they planned to purchase one ship, but later increased the order to two. We competed with Europe’s top shipbuilding firms. Our vessels, certified by the Turkish Navy, met NATO standards, which helped build confidence in our capabilities,” Guleryuz said.

He emphasized the significance of exporting ships to Portugal, a nation with a strong maritime heritage:

“We are building ships for the country of Vasco da Gama and the descendants of Magellan. This is a historic achievement for Türkiye’s defense industry.”