STM’s latest defense technologies showcased at EFES-2024 Exercise

According to a PR published by STM on May 24, 2024, the ongoing EFES-2024 Exercise is currently showcasing modern warships and tactical mini UAV systems developed by the Turkish firm.

As a major contributor to the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF), STM Savunma Teknolojileri Mühendislik ve Ticaret A.Ş. continues to enhance the TAF’s inventory with nationally developed technologies proven in combat. This year’s EFES-2024, held in Seferihisar, İzmir, sees participation from 11,000 personnel representing 50 countries, marking another milestone in its successful history.

MILGEM Ada-Class Corvettes at EFES-2024

Key assets from STM are playing pivotal roles in EFES-2024. Among these are the MİLGEM Ada-Class vessels, part of Turkey’s first national corvette project, where STM is the lead subcontractor. Four of these corvettes have been delivered to the Turkish Navy and are participating in the exercise’s live-fire phase.

Additionally, TCG PİRİREİS, the first submarine from Turkey’s New Type Submarine Project (Type-214), is also involved. STM has been integral in constructing the Reis Class Submarines and modernizing the AY-, PREVEZE-, and GÜR-class submarines (Type-209) with advanced indigenous systems.

STM’s tactical mini UAV systems, developed with national capabilities, are also featured in the hands of TAF personnel.

TCG Istanbul and STM500 submarine at EFES-2024

A Defense Industry Exhibition is running alongside the exercise, showcasing modern national systems to local and international delegations. Highlights include the MİLGEM İSTİF-Class Frigate (TCG İSTANBUL), Turkey’s first national frigate designed and constructed by STM; the STM500, Turkey’s first small-sized national submarine project; and the STM MPAC, a fast, surface-to-surface guided missile attack craft.

In the UAV segment, visitors can inspect Türkiye’s first national attack UAV, the KARGU, a rotary wing loitering munition system that joined the TAF inventory in 2018 and has since been exported to over 10 countries.

Also on display are the BOYGA, an ammunition-drop UAV added to the Turkish security forces in 2022; the TOGAN, a surveillance UAV deployed in three countries, including Türkiye; and the ALPAGU, a fixed-wing loitering munition system that achieved export success last year.