The **BLUEVISION maritime solution** has successfully completed operational testing on the SANCAR Armed Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) for the Turkish Naval Forces. HAVELSAN developed this technology to assist maritime operators in tracking complex environments. Busy waterways and demanding weather conditions often make it difficult to detect small boats or floating objects. While traditional radar and Automatic Identification System (AIS) technologies remain essential, they do not always provide complete situational awareness.
The system integrates electro-optical sensors, artificial intelligence, and sensor fusion technologies into a single operational view. Operators can view information from cameras, AIS, and other navigation systems on one interface. This integration allows crews to verify visual data and react more quickly to potential hazards. The software detects and tracks small boats, buoys, floating objects, and persons in the water.
Capabilities of the BLUEVISION maritime solution
Using real-time image analysis, the software classifies detected objects and estimates their positions. It applies a track-generation approach to monitor every detectable target within the camera’s field of view simultaneously. This process reports each target as a track enriched with position and risk information. The system works with both thermal and daylight cameras to enable continuous around-the-clock operations.
Integration and Operational Use
The technology is currently employed on the SANCAR USV, which entered service in 2026. Integrated with the ADVENT Combat Management System, the **BLUEVISION maritime solution** contributes to autonomous navigation and mission execution. The system has successfully completed collision-avoidance and search-and-rescue test activities under the SANCAR programme. Beyond this platform, the software has been integrated into RAFNAR boats through cooperation with VN Maritime and Piloda Shipyard.
Commercial operators also use the technology on container boats in challenging navigation environments. In military applications, the system supports decision-making for safe navigation, collision avoidance, and tracking unidentified contacts. It assists in detecting dark boats and verifying spoofed AIS information. When active sensors are restricted, its passive electro-optical detection capability contributes to covert navigation.
Reducing Operator Fatigue
The system functions as a digital lookout by alerting operators through visual and audible warnings when it identifies potential collision risks. By bringing different data sources together, the software reduces the burden of continuous manual observation. This automation allows crews to focus on critical decisions rather than data collection. In autonomous and search-and-rescue operations, it helps prevent the loss of attention that occurs during long monitoring periods.
Future Outlook and Architecture
The software-based architecture allows operators to add new functions and capabilities as operational needs change. The **BLUEVISION maritime solution** can be configured for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), Search and Rescue (SAR), and submarine periscope observation missions. HAVELSAN plans to continue deploying this technology across various maritime platforms to support safer navigation.
