Türkiye’s UAV powerhouse SAVX Technology pushes limits with MERKÜT FPV drone PHOTO/VIDEO

A subsidiary of Pasifik Technology, SAVX Technology, is developing advanced drone-based motion control systems and various platforms, leveraging its expertise in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The company has conducted multiple tests on its MERKÜT FPV kamikaze drone, which was showcased at SAHA EXPO 2024.

Abdullah Aktaş, the founder of SAVX Technology, highlighted the growing demand for FPV drones on the battlefield, stating that MERKÜT was designed with these needs in mind, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.

"The flight duration is 20 minutes, with an operational range of up to 8 kilometres. It is equipped with a guided munition system featuring fragmentation warheads. One of our key priorities is safety," Aktaş explained.

"FPV drones have transitioned from the hobby sector to military applications, and we frequently see them in modern conflicts. Recognizing that safety cannot be overlooked, we have enhanced our work in this area. We have incorporated a secure detonator system with a mechanical barrier to prevent overheating. Our warhead contains approximately 950 fragments, which are designed for anti-personnel purposes and distribute evenly upon impact.

"As FPV drones are controlled by an operator, targeting while simultaneously determining the detonation point can be challenging. To address this, we have integrated a proximity sensor that automates the final phase of the mission. This allows the operator to select the detonation distance, ranging from 20 centimetres to 5 metres, ensuring focus remains solely on hitting the target," he added.

According to Aktaş, the munition is deployed automatically when the system reaches a designated distance from the target. This feature simplifies the operator's task and enhances the munition's effectiveness. Additionally, risks are mitigated through a dual-layer detonator system that is both mechanically and electronically secure.

In the event of mission cancellation, the drone can be safely landed and stored for reuse. Aktaş also stated that the detonator is only activated after the drone reaches a specified altitude and receives certain operator commands, ensuring secure storage otherwise.

Discussing future developments, Aktaş revealed: "We are working on armour-piercing munitions. We are also developing fibre-optic connectivity to prevent disruption from electronic warfare countermeasures. Our team is focused on target detection and tracking algorithms to facilitate the operator's work and improve strike accuracy."

He further noted that MERKÜT features an external communication system to ensure operator safety in all conditions. Additionally, it is equipped with a thermal imaging camera for day and night operations in various weather conditions and is designed to withstand rain, ensuring mission continuity.

By Aghakazim Guliyev