A Turkish firm has launched TALAY, a sea-skimming multipurpose drone, capable of stealth operations at just 30 centimeters above sea level.
The drone‘s ability to fly so low to the surface of the water is a key feature. It utilizes the “wing-in-ground” (WIG) effect, where the surface provides a cushion of air that increases lift and efficiency. This allows it to fly at very low altitudes above the sea, making it very difficult to detect by conventional naval radar systems.
Designed for maritime and coastal missions, it can reach 124 mph, stay airborne for three hours, and carry up to 66 pounds of sensors or munitions.
Powered by an electric engine and AI-assisted flight control, TALAY can conduct patrol, strike, or harbor attacks even in rough sea conditions. Its low cost allows for mass strikes on ports and ships, overwhelming short-range air defense systems.
Turkey’s kamikaze drone
The development of such a drone is seen as a potential game-changer in naval warfare. It offers a low-cost, stealthy, and highly effective way to challenge larger, more expensive naval assets. Analysts believe it could reshape naval tactics, especially in close-in coastal and anti-ship operations.
The drone, which is considered a kamikaze or multi-role UAV, was developed by the Turkish firm Solid AERO in collaboration with Yonca Shipyard.
The TALAY was recently showcased at a defense industry fair, and a production-ready model was presented. The firm plans to begin mass production after completing maritime tests. It is reported that serial production of TALAY is set to begin in October 2026, with the first production units to be delivered to the Turkish Navy in early 2027.
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