Turkey’s defense industry continues to strengthen its capabilities in land operations with revolutionary autonomous systems. One of the latest innovations in this field, BARKAN 2, stands out as a next-generation autonomous unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) offering high mobility and mission flexibility against harsh terrain conditions and asymmetric threats.
Equipped with advanced artificial intelligence algorithms and autonomous driving capabilities, BARKAN 2 successfully performs versatile operations such as reconnaissance, surveillance, ammunition transport, IED neutralization, casualty evacuation, and damage assessment. Moreover, thanks to its swarm infrastructure, it can operate in coordination with similar systems, supporting multi-vehicle interaction.
Mission Capability Enhanced by Technology
Powered by a fully electric propulsion system, BARKAN 2 can move at a top speed of 10 km/h. The vehicle weighs 750 kilograms unloaded and can carry a payload between 200 and 300 kilograms, performing continuous missions for over 5 hours. Operating in temperatures ranging from -20°C to +49°C, its portable design facilitates ease of use in the field.
Mission Systems and Armament
BARKAN 2 is equipped with critical mission systems including:
- A 7.62 mm weapon system,
- A 40 mm grenade launcher,
- A robotic arm for bomb disposal,
- Advanced day/night surveillance,
- 3D mapping capabilities,
- CBRN mission support, and
- Casualty rescue operations.
Additionally, it features enhanced environmental awareness through advanced sensor systems and upgradeable surveillance equipment, maximizing data collection in operational areas.
Autonomous Intelligence and Mission Planning
The vehicle is designed with autonomous capabilities such as GPS-independent mission execution, return-to-base upon communication loss, obstacle detection and avoidance, route planning, and leader-following. These features enable effective operation in complex environments with minimal human intervention.
Strengthened by Patented Innovations
More than just a vehicle, BARKAN 2 serves as a high-tech research and development platform. It includes numerous patented and utility model technologies such as “leader-following swarm control systems,” “image processing computers,” “autonomous track tensioning mechanisms,” and “day/night UAV detection systems,” reflecting its innovative design.
A Reflection of Domestic and National Power
Fully designed and developed in Turkey, BARKAN 2 demonstrates the country’s advanced capabilities in medium and heavy class unmanned ground vehicles. Offering versatile mission capabilities for both defense and security applications, the system stands out as a ready solution for the battlefields of the future.
