TENGİZ (TENGIZ) is an extra-large unmanned underwater vehicle (XLUUV) developed by Turkish defence company Savunma Teknolojileri Mühendislik ve Ticaret (STM). It is the largest platform in STM’s autonomous underwater portfolio.
Built around a modular, extendable main chassis, the design is intended to increase operating depth and overall capability while enabling mission reconfiguration, easing maintenance and simplifying the integration of additional systems.
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The TENGİZ XLUUV was unveiled at the SAHA 2026 International Defence, Aerospace and Space Industry Exhibition at the Istanbul Expo Center in May.
TENGIZ XLUUV design and features
The TENGİZ XLUUV measures 11.2m (36.7ft) in length, has a diameter of 1.6m and a displacement of 17.8t.
The platform’s architecture features physically independent sections or modules that can be integrated based on operational requirements. These modules range from sensor suites, high-capacity energy units, propulsion and communications elements, and mission-focused payloads such as weapon systems, externally mounted sensors and sub-UUV units.
The TENGİZ platform is designed for strategic transport, with the vessel’s dimensions aligned to fit into a 40ft ISO container. It can be launched and recovered using a LARS Launch and Recovery System with cranes at port facilities or from logistics support vessels.
The vessel is also intended to operate with well-deck procedures on major platforms such as the TCG ANADOLU LHD, the Turkish Navy’s drone carrier and multi-purpose amphibious assault ship.
The platform’s ability to autonomously enter and exit well-decks strengthens its multi-dimensional integration capabilities with existing logistics and shipborne operating concepts.
Performance of TENGIZ extra large unmanned underwater vehicle
TENGİZ is designed to operate at depths exceeding 400m and to reach speeds of more than eight knots.
High-capacity energy units and a modern system architecture are intended to enable missions lasting more than 20 days without external support.
Command, control and communications
The TENGİZ XLUUV platform includes an integrated communications set-up using expendable fibre-optic buoys and satellite communication systems to maintain data transfer and operational coordination.
The platform is designed to operate with HAVELSAN’s ADVENT Command and Control architecture, which aligns with Nato STANAG 4817 (Multi-Domain Control Station) standards. ADVENT supports coordinated operations across multiple mission platforms by synchronising capabilities for joint tasks.
TENGIZ XLUUV mission capabilities
The TENGİZ XLUUV is intended for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, as well as target tracking and barrier patrol in support of anti-submarine warfare. It is also designed for electronic warfare, signals intelligence and seabed mapping.
The platform is designed to deploy heavy and very light torpedoes and follows a mothership operating concept to carry and release the STM NETA 300 autonomous underwater vehicle and the ALPAGUT smart loitering munition system from depth.
In addition, it is intended for inspecting underwater infrastructure and conducting offensive mine warfare through mine-laying along designated transit routes.
