A new trilateral partnership has been established to develop and supply advanced unmanned and hybrid maritime platforms specifically for the Italian market. Turkish software giant HAVELSAN has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Italy’s VN Maritime Technologies and Piloda Defence, creating a collaborative framework to address the evolving naval requirements of the Mediterranean region.
The agreement outlines a clear division of labor that leverages the strengths of each partner. HAVELSAN will serve as the technology architect, providing the autonomous control systems, mission management software, AI-driven perception tools, and secure communication networks that form the “digital backbone” of the platforms. VN Maritime Technologies will act as the prime contractor for platform architecture, contributing expertise in high-performance vessel design and the integration of hybrid manned-unmanned operational concepts. Piloda Defence, through its shipyard infrastructure, will manage local production, testing, sea trials, and long-term lifecycle support in Italy.
Under the terms of the MoU, Piloda Defence and VN Maritime have been designated as HAVELSAN’s exclusive industrial partners and representatives for all Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) projects within Italy. This structure ensures that all engagements with Italian authorities, from the navy and coast guard to public institutions, will be channeled through the local partnership, guaranteeing a unified industrial and commercial approach.
The collaboration will produce a range of next-generation maritime vessels capable of operating in three distinct modes: fully autonomous, remotely controlled, and a manned-unmanned hybrid configuration. Designed to withstand demanding Mediterranean conditions, these platforms are intended for a wide spectrum of missions, including intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), border and port security, counter-smuggling operations, and search and rescue support.
The partnership is actively working toward its first major milestone: signing an initial procurement contract in Italy during the first half of 2026. This first acquisition is viewed as a foundational step for a broader national roadmap, enabling Italy to progressively expand its unmanned maritime capabilities through a sustainable, locally-integrated industrial model.
Beyond the immediate commercial goals, the MoU is expected to have a significant strategic impact. It positions Turkish autonomous maritime technology within the European market while creating a high-value industrial ecosystem in Italy. By combining HAVELSAN’s advanced software and AI capabilities with Italian shipbuilding and systems integration expertise, the partnership aims to set a new standard for naval innovation and establish a lasting model for defense cooperation between Türkiye and Italy.
