Maritime Security: The Innovative Arida-M System Unveiled
**An exciting new chapter in maritime security has been opened with the unveiling of the Arida-M system, a joint initiative by Anadolu Robotics and Sekiz Altmış Technology. This groundbreaking system is not only a functional innovation but also a conceptual study focused on safeguarding critical infrastructure and assets within maritime environments.**
The Arida-M system differentiates itself by implementing a layered defense strategy aimed at countering asymmetric threats, a pressing concern highlighted by the recent conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war. According to Ahmet Musab Yıldız, General Manager of Anadolu Robotics, the system’s research and development phase is currently underway, with plans for its debut in the water within the next three months.
Central to the Arida-M’s operational framework are two primary systems: one is a detection mechanism integrated into a main vessel, while the other functions as a preventive system deployed in the water. This dual approach ensures comprehensive security, particularly for naval task groups both while docked and operating in hostile waters.
The system is designed to establish a protective perimeter extending approximately 10 kilometers. It is equipped to detect asymmetric threats, including low radar cross-section vehicles, and can identify these targets at a distance of 6 kilometers before executing engagement protocols.
Ensar Çalışkan, Chairman of Sekiz Altmış Technology, shared insights on the MUHAFIZ İDA project, which is being developed in tandem with Anadolu Robotics to bolster protection against unmanned maritime vehicles and enhance port security. Çalışkan forecasts that the research and development phase will wrap up within two years, paving the way for serial production.
The planned preventive system will utilize a platform capable of operating in sea state 4, powered by a diesel engine, and achieving impressive speeds of 50 knots or more. Yıldız emphasized the detection system’s proficiency in recognizing targets even during challenging conditions, such as fog.
Given the project’s complexity, Anadolu Robotics is collaborating closely with Sekiz Altmış Technology, leveraging its robust communication network to enhance the system’s capabilities. The İDA unit, projected to measure 4.5 meters in width and 1.3 meters in length, will have a remarkable operational endurance of up to 70 hours and is designed to carry a payload of 50 kilograms.
Ultimately, the İDA will be capable of operating in swarms, reflecting a significant advancement in unmanned maritime vehicle technology, as envisioned by both Anadolu Robotics and Sekiz Altmış Technology.
