HAVELSAN’s BULUT: A New Era in Autonomous Aerial Surveillance

HAVELSAN has achieved another milestone in its robotic autonomous systems journey with the introduction of BULUT, an advanced reconnaissance and surveillance UAV. Developed under the guidance of the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB), this new platform represents a significant advancement in Turkish defense technology, successfully meeting rigorous testing requirements before joining the inventories of both the Turkish Armed Forces and General Directorate of Security.

Technical Excellence

BULUT showcases impressive technical specifications that set it apart in the UAV landscape. The system combines an innovative dual-propulsion approach, utilizing electric motors for vertical takeoff and landing while employing a gasoline internal combustion engine for extended operations. This configuration enables remarkable six-hour continuous flight capabilities and GNSS-independent reconnaissance operations. With a payload capacity of 5 kg and data sharing range of up to 80 kilometers, BULUT demonstrates exceptional operational flexibility.

Advanced Features for Complex Missions

The UAV system incorporates sophisticated operational features critical for modern security challenges. These include moving object detection and avoidance, collision prevention, and anti-jamming capabilities. BULUT’s ability to operate in adverse weather conditions, including light rain and snowfall, is enhanced by its advanced sensors and software integration. The system’s fully autonomous operation, including runway-independent takeoff and landing, coupled with its EO/IR/LRF integrated camera system, positions it as a versatile platform for diverse security applications.

Versatile Mission Applications

BULUT’s mission profile spans an impressive range of applications, including:

• Border and coastal patrol operations
• Counter-smuggling and counter-terrorism initiatives
• Law enforcement and security missions
• Environmental monitoring and disaster response
• Infrastructure security and inspection tasks
• Search and rescue operations
• Agricultural surveillance

Leadership Perspective and Future Development

HAVELSAN’s leadership, including General Manager Dr. Mehmet Akif Nacar and other key executives, emphasizes BULUT’s alignment with SSB expectations and its rapid deployment to active service. Built upon the experience gained from the BAHA UAV project, BULUT represents an evolution in HAVELSAN’s autonomous systems capabilities. The company continues to refine and enhance the system based on operational feedback, with development of additional variants already underway.

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This latest addition to HAVELSAN’s unmanned systems portfolio demonstrates Turkey’s growing capabilities in autonomous defense technology and its commitment to developing advanced solutions for modern security challenges. BULUT’s successful deployment and ongoing evolution highlight the dynamic nature of Turkey’s defense industry and its ability to meet evolving security requirements with innovative solutions.

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