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This article was automatically translated from the original Turkish version.
TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan (2025) was held at the Istanbul Tersane Command from 28 to 31 August 2025. Organized by the Türkiye Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation) in cooperation with the Ministry of Industry and Technology and the Ministry of National Defense, this edition of TEKNOFEST, the world’s largest aviation, space and technology festival, focused on maritime and underwater technologies under the theme “Mavi Vatan”.
A program open exclusively to invited dignitaries was held on 28 August 2025, while the festival was open to the public from 29 to 31 August.
On 24 August, as part of TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan, a naval parade was held in the Istanbul Strait with the participation of vessels from the Turkish Naval Forces. Hosted by the Ministry of National Defense, units from various classes of the navy sailed along the length of the Istanbul Strait.
The vessels participating in the passage included TCG Anadolu, TCG Savarona, TCG Oruçreis, TCG İstanbul, TCG Burgazada, TCG Heybeliada, TCG Nusret, TCG Sakarya, TCG Kalkan, TCG Alanya, TCG Sancaktar and the submarine TCG Hızırreis. On 24 August 2025 at approximately 14:45, TCG Anadolu entered the Strait from the Black Sea, proceeding along the route from the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge through Sarıyer, Tarabya, Emirgan, Kanlıca, Rumeli Hisarı, Kandilli, Bebek and Ortaköy, and passing beneath the 15 July Martyrs Bridge.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan greeted the fleet at Dolmabahçe, while citizens gathered along the shores of the Strait to observe the passage. Participants recorded images of the vessels using their mobile phones and accompanied the fleet with flags.
On the deck of TCG Anadolu during the passage, the Bayraktar TB3 and Kızılelma platforms were displayed. Additionally, 250 students selected by the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Türkiye Technology Team Foundation participated in the ceremony via TCG Anadolu.
President of the Presidency of Communications Burhanettin Duran, in his assessment of the event, stated that the navy’s passage through the Strait underscored Türkiye’s defense capabilities and its determination to assert its rights over the Mavi Vatan.
The opening day of the festival on 28 August 2025 was held exclusively for invited guests. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan delivered a speech during the opening program.
Scientific and strategic events were organized on the opening day. A conference titled “The Mediterranean and Ottoman Maritime History” was held with the participation of historian Professor İlber Ortaylı and Rector of the National Defense University Professor Erhan Afyoncu. Additionally, the “National Aircraft Carrier Forum” was convened, during which Türkiye’s future maritime vision was discussed.
Technology competitions also commenced on the same day. Under the leadership of ASELSAN, the Unmanned Underwater Systems Competition, under ROKETSAN’s leadership, the Underwater Rocket Competition and the Unmanned Maritime Vehicle Competition began their initial phases on the opening day.
Three main technology competitions were organized under TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan 2025, and the final results were announced at the closing ceremony.
Unmanned Underwater Systems Competition was held for the eighth time under the leadership of ASELSAN and, for the first time, conducted at sea. From 2,351 applications, 42 teams advanced to the finals. The final missions were carried out under the themes “Rescue Dumlupınar,” “In the Footsteps of Atlantis,” and “Underwater Cable Monitoring and Anomaly Detection.” In the competition:
Unmanned Marine Vehicle Competition was organized with a focus on surface maneuvering and mission execution. In this competition:
Underwater Rocket Competition, organized by ROKETSAN, saw teams demonstrate the performance of rockets launched safely from underwater as they surfaced and ascended. In the competition:
Teams that placed in the competitions received their awards at the closing ceremony held on 31 August 2025 from Selçuk Bayraktar and Admiral Ercüment Tatlıoğlu.
As part of the festival, the Blue Homeland Drawing and Essay Competitions were organized with participation from students at all levels, from primary school to postgraduate studies.
Blue Homeland Drawing Competition was targeted at primary and middle school students.
Blue Homeland Essay Competition was organized to include high school, university, and postgraduate students.
Students who placed in the competitions received their awards at the closing ceremony held within the festival grounds.
The TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan 2025 program also included maritime-themed sports events. These competitions were held with high participation during the final days of the festival.
Dragon Boat Races were conducted on a designated course at the Istanbul Shipyard. Teams from various military units and student groups competed, and the placing teams received their awards at the closing ceremony.
Rope Pulling Competition, as an important part of maritime culture, was held on the festival grounds. Teams composed of military academy students and civilian groups participated. Winning teams were awarded following intense matches.
Rope Throwing Competition, designed to test the skill of rope throwing in maritime operations, was organized as part of the festival. Participating teams aimed to deliver the rope to the designated target as quickly and accurately as possible.
Throwing the Rope End has been included in the festival program inspired by maritime traditions. Participants threw the rope end based on distance and accuracy criteria, with the teams earning the highest scores receiving awards.
Throughout TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan 2025, numerous platforms belonging to the Turkish Naval Forces were opened to public visitation. In this context, TCG Anadolu, TCG İstanbul, TCG Burgazada, TCG Oruçreis, TCG Nusret, TCG Sakarya, and the submarine TCG Hızırreis welcomed visitors during the festival. Additionally, the yacht TCG Savarona, which carries the memory of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, was also among the exhibited assets.
In addition to naval assets, a special exhibition titled "Mavi Vatan Time Tunnel" was established at the festival grounds. This exhibition presented Türkiye’s maritime history, the Mavi Vatan doctrine, and developments in the defense industry in chronological order. Virtual reality applications were also employed within the exhibition area, allowing participants to experience naval operations and maritime technologies in a simulated environment.
The Submarine Attack (SAT) and Submarine Defense (SAS) Commands also organized demonstrations as part of the festival program. Commandos reenacted hostage rescue operation scenarios and showcased specialized operational techniques such as diving procedures and the use of ATAK boats.
TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan commenced on 28 August 2025 at the Istanbul Shipyard Command. The event is organized in cooperation between the Ministry of Industry and Technology and the Ministry of National Defense, under the leadership of the Türkiye Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation).
On the first day of the program, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler, and Chairman of the TEKNOFEST Board of Directors Selçuk Bayraktar delivered opening speeches. Competitions for unmanned surface vehicles, unmanned underwater systems, and underwater rockets were launched. Additionally, the National Aircraft Carrier Forum and a conference titled “The Mediterranean and Ottoman Maritime History” were held.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan attended the first day of TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan. Greeting the young participants, Erdoğan said: “I send my greetings to all our youth and children who have devoted their hearts to Turkey’s sacred journey and who lead our nation toward a strong tomorrow.”
Erdoğan expressed his joy at gathering with the personnel of the Istanbul Shipyard Command alongside “youth, the embodiment of hope, love, and light,” adding: “Welcome to TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan; you have brought prosperity. May your unity, solidarity, and brotherhood endure forever. May the Almighty open your path and may the light in your eyes never fade.”
President Erdoğan emphasized that August holds a special place in the nation’s history and collective memory, continuing his speech as follows: “We celebrate victories written in epic form at Malazgirt, Çaldıran, Mohács, and during the Great Offensive. Two days ago, we proudly marked the 954th anniversary of the Battle of Malazgirt. The honor rolls in Ahlat and Malazgirt were truly magnificent. Once again, we declared to the entire world that we are one and united. The eternal and timeless brotherhood of our people was reaffirmed on the plains of Malazgirt. Yesterday, we were at ASELSAN’s Gölbaşı campus. On the 50th anniversary of our company, we simultaneously took three proud steps for our defense industry. We added our Steel Dome component systems to inventory. We inaugurated 14 facilities belonging to ASELSAN. We also laid the foundation stone of the Oğulbey Technology Hub. Today, we are here at our Istanbul Shipyard Command. In two days, we will commemorate the 103rd anniversary of the Victory of 30 August. Thus, we are fully appreciating our Victory Week in the most fitting manner. We do not merely stage protests or pass these important days with hollow slogans and empty noise, as the opposition does. On the contrary, we are making every effort to fill them with meaning and substance.”
Expressing gratitude to the youth for their enthusiasm, Erdoğan said: “I individually congratulate each of you for the trust you have placed in our nation. I offer endless thanks to my Lord for walking this path with a generation that knows its roots and mission and is focused on its goals. I extend my gratitude to the Ministry of Industry and Technology, the T3 Foundation, and all my colleagues who contributed to this program.” He underscored that an excellent program had been prepared for the festival, highlighting that numerous activities have been organized to inspire vision among the youth.
President Erdoğan added: “I wish that the TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan program, which will continue for four days—from underwater and maritime vehicle competitions to interactive ship design workshops, from forums and conferences to educational and entertaining stage performances—will serve as a source of blessings for our country, our nation, and especially for you, our youth. I kiss the eyes of all our young people who will showcase their skill through their products, projects, and achievements in the TEKNOFEST technology competitions, and I wish each and every one of you success.”
Erdoğan emphasized that those who wish to see what faith and determination can achieve despite obstacles should look at Türkiye’s defense industry: “Our defense industry, the pride of our nation, writes epics in every field. While our friends praise our achievements, our adversaries are anxious and desperate in their attempts to catch up. Let them try—they will run, but they will never catch us.”
Erdoğan emphasized: “Just as the War of Independence a century ago inspired hope among the oppressed, today’s defense industry initiatives are instilling courage in the downtrodden.” He continued: “Wherever our brothers and sisters are suffering—from Palestine to Syria, from Yemen to Somalia, from Sudan to Libya—we take pride in Türkiye’s achievements.” He added: “Of course, we did not reach today’s position easily. Dear youth, what did we do? We did not listen to those who said ‘It cannot be done.’ We ignored those who claimed ‘You cannot succeed.’ We did not pay attention to those who said ‘You are dreaming.’ We were not dreamers, but we never abandoned the act of dreaming. We placed our trust in our people, in our engineers, in our companies, and fully in you, the youth. And in a very short time, we reached a level that the world follows with admiration.”
In his speech, President Erdoğan highlighted the current state of Türkiye’s defense industry technologies. While emphasizing the strengthening of Türkiye’s defense industry, Erdoğan noted that efforts have also been made to increase the younger generation’s interest in technology, digitalization, and innovation: “TEKNOFEST has become the symbol of our endeavors. We held the first TEKNOFEST in 2018, and this year we are organizing its 10th edition domestically and its 12th overall. In eight years, we have welcomed nearly 11 million visitors.”
Recalling that two TEKNOFEST events are planned for 2025—one in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and the other in Istanbul—Erdoğan continued: “Nearly 1.2 million participants have applied to 63 competitions. I greatly value how TEKNOFEST continues to capture the interest of our youth each year. All these figures tell us one thing: TEKNOFEST is advancing powerfully, breaking down every barrier. The youth of this country are becoming more curious about technology, research, and discovering new things. The children of this nation never give up on dreaming for Türkiye or pursuing their dreams. Despite countless perception campaigns, escalating provocations, and propaganda, our youth trust themselves, believe in themselves, and look toward tomorrow with hope.”
Expressing pride in the youth, Erdoğan quoted the poet Arif Nihat Asya: “You are in the hand, in the tongue, in the heart, at the head. You are the age at which Fatih conquered Istanbul.” He added: “Let us thank God for granting us the TEKNOFEST youth as companions, fulfilling the longing of the late Mehmet Akif, the master Necip Fazıl, the late Nurettin Topçu, and many other thinkers of our nation.”
At the conclusion of his speech, President Erdoğan addressed the youth:
“Who carries the banner of this sacred march? You do. You are the pioneers of a rising era, the architects of the Century of Türkiye. I want every young friend to know this: the future is yours, Türkiye is yours, and indeed the entire world is yours. Never allow the weak to set boundaries for you. Think big, set grand goals, and continue walking toward them without fatigue, without weariness, without collapse. If you seek freedom, turn inward to your essence. If you seek justice, embrace your civilization. If you seek the future, make peace with your past. And please never forget this: Dear youth, you are the descendants of Sultan Alparslan, Salahaddin al-Ayyubi, and Fatih. You are the children of a great nation whose glorious history bears no stain of colonialism, genocide, or oppression. I especially ask you to always hold your heads high. I earnestly request that each of you act with this self-confidence. Your self-confidence and your determination are Türkiye’s greatest guarantee. You will see that the small steps you take today will open the doors to great achievements tomorrow. You will reap the fruits of today’s sacrifices in areas you never imagined. We carried the trust entrusted to us by our predecessors with honor and dignity. As youth, you will take the banner we hand over to you and, God willing, raise it even higher. I believe this. I trust you. And God willing, I will continue to trust you until my last breath. I know that as long as you are here, there is always hope, there is always a future.”
Erdoğan extended his best wishes to the members of the navy and thanked the Ministry of National Defense, the Ministry of Industry and Technology, the Presidency of Defense Industries, the Türkiye Technology Team Foundation, and other institutions for their participation and contributions to TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan.
Selçuk Bayraktar, Chairman of the TEKNOFEST Board of Directors and the T3 Foundation Board of Trustees, said during the opening ceremony: “First and foremost, in this glorious Victory Week, I remember with reverence all our heroes, beginning with Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and his comrades, and I warmly celebrate our beloved nation’s 30 August Victory Day with the deepest emotions.”
Bayraktar noted that the TEKNOFEST wind is blowing “from the Marmara region, from the heart of the Blue Homeland,” and said: “Today, together with our youth, we are turning into reality the dream of many patriots, like my late father Özdemir Bayraktar, who devoted his life to the National Technology Initiative and passionately loved the Blue Homeland.”
Bayraktar emphasized that TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan is a special event organized for the first time under the auspices of the Turkish Naval Forces, a branch of the Ministry of National Defense. He continued: “Here we have the opportunity to showcase our engineering capabilities and technological strength on the seas. Our competing youth will push the boundaries above and below the oceans across many categories. In the Unmanned Underwater Systems Competition, our teams will undertake a profoundly meaningful mission: they will compete in a symbolic rescue operation for the Dumlupınar submarine, lost in the depths of the Dardanelles.
In the Unmanned Surface Vehicle Competition, they will carry out patrol missions using the autonomous systems they have developed. In the Underwater Rocket Competition, they will navigate autonomously using their own designed vehicles and launch their rockets not above ground but beneath the water’s surface. These competitions are the maritime reflections of our national technology flag, stretching from roots to skies.”
Bayraktar, who described TEKNOFEST as “a spirit of revival that cannot be contained by conventional limits,” said: “We carried this spirit and the enthusiasm of the Blue Homeland to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in May, embracing our brothers and sisters there. In 2025, over 1.1 million of our young people applied to our technology competitions. This year, with 12 brand-new contests ranging from 5G positioning to AI film competitions, from Turkish large language models to 3T in oncology, we have reached a total of 63 competitions. With over 10 million visitors and nearly 5 million participant applications since its inception, TEKNOFEST has become the world’s largest technology event.”
Bayraktar added: “On one side stands the historic Savarona, honoring our deep maritime heritage. Directly opposite stands TCG Anadolu, the world’s first UAV carrier, pointing toward the bright future of our Blue Homeland. One of the most tangible manifestations of this spirit and determination is our steel wings in the sky. Our Bayraktar TB3 and TCG Anadolu, having achieved a global first by taking off from and landing on short-deck ships, embody the Blue Homeland ambition in flesh and bone. This synergy has not only launched our national naval aviation but also opened the doors to a new era as a transformative force.”
Bayraktar noted that the new world order being envisioned does not accept only independent states but also free ideas. “A narrative of division, othering, and inciting hatred among face-to-face human beings dominates. The TEKNOFEST generation has shown a moral stance against this digital hegemony of the global order. Turkey has brought to life its social platform, NSosyal. This platform, where all colors converge, has surpassed one million users in a short time. I invite everyone across our emotional geography to join NSosyal, the creation of our young engineers.”
Bayraktar concluded his remarks: “I express my gratitude to our esteemed President, whose vision illuminates our path; to our valued stakeholders who have stood shoulder to shoulder with this cause; to all the young participants who chase their dreams, turning night into day; and to my fellow travelers at the T3 Foundation who have poured their sweat into this organization.”
The honored commander invites all our people who wish to witness the strength of the descendants of Kaptan-ı Derya Barbaros Hayrettin Pasha and experience the splendor of our technological festival to the Istanbul Naval Shipyard Command on 29–30–31 August for TEKNOFEST Blue Homeland. Let us already make our appointment for the true grand gathering: Let us come together at Atatürk Airport from 17 to 21 September at TEKNOFEST. Let us share this excitement together. May your path be open, your inspiration abundant, and your prow steadfast.
At the opening ceremony of TEKNOFEST Blue Homeland, Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler also delivered a speech. Güler emphasized that every software developed and every system designed constitutes a valuable investment in the country’s independence. He stated that the strength of the defense industry will continue to grow through the intelligence, determination, and courage of young people.
Minister Güler recalled Turkey’s historical emphasis on the seas and quoted Barbaros Hayrettin Pasha’s words: “He who dominates the seas dominates the world.” He highlighted how Turkey is carrying forward this historic maritime legacy by integrating it with the most advanced technologies. He stressed that the legacy of Barbaros, Turgut Reis, and Piri Reis is now being rewritten through unmanned maritime vehicles, underwater rockets, and engineering solutions.
In his speech, he referred to the breakthroughs achieved in recent years under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in the defense industry, noting that Türkiye has become one of the few countries capable of developing its own UAVs, SİHAs, warships, submarines, ground vehicles, and air defense systems.
Güler pointed out that organizations like TEKNOFEST bring young people together with science, technology, and engineering, functioning as a “laboratory of the future.” He emphasized that the projects presented by young people at such events form the foundation of tomorrow’s defense systems and that strategic superiority is already being built. He also reminded the audience that the Ministry of National Defense and the Turkish Armed Forces have contributed to initiatives supporting youth in line with this vision.
At the end of Güler’s speech, he stated that one of Türkiye’s foremost goals is to become a “country without terrorism,” and emphasized that upon achieving this goal, a much stronger Türkiye will be entrusted to its youth.
On the first day of TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan, three main competitions centered on maritime themes began: the Underwater Rocket Competition, the Unmanned Maritime Vehicle Competition, and the Unmanned Underwater Systems Competition. A total of 2,698 teams applied for these competitions, with 86 teams and approximately 1,000 finalists advancing to the finals. Finalists came not only from various provinces of Türkiye but also from Uzbekistan, giving the competitions an international character.
The Underwater Rocket Competition was held for the first time this year under TEKNOFEST. Organized by ROKETSAN, the competition received 99 applications from Türkiye and abroad. Sixteen teams and 187 participants advanced to the finals. Each finalist team consisted of five to fifteen members, and participants developed projects focused on designing safe and autonomous systems for rocket transportation and firing mechanisms. A total of 750,000 Turkish lira in prizes was allocated to the winning teams, along with special awards for Best Team Spirit and Most Original Design.
The Unmanned Maritime Vehicle Competition was organized to encourage the development of autonomous maritime vehicles. A total of 248 teams applied, with 28 teams and 347 participants reaching the finals. Teams competed in tasks including “point tracking,” “point tracking in obstacle-filled environments,” and “kamikaze engagement.” The first-place prize was set at 250,000 Turkish lira, second place at 200,000 Turkish lira, and third place at 150,000 Turkish lira. Additional awards were also given in the categories of Best Team Spirit, Most Original Software, and Best Design.
The Unmanned Underwater Systems Competition was also launched on the first day. In this category, teams from various provinces of Türkiye participated alongside international contestants. Teams are developing vehicles capable of autonomously performing missions in underwater environments.
Students participating in the competitions utilized a variety of technologies during their preparation phases. Students from Konya Technical University competing in the Underwater Rocket Competition ensured the protection of electronic components using waterproofing technologies and aluminum hulls, while enhancing autonomous movement capabilities through pressure and humidity sensors. Students from Bahçeşehir University participating in the Unmanned Maritime Vehicle Competition stated they planned to complete the course using artificial intelligence-assisted image processing systems. Another finalist team aimed to accomplish the kamikaze mission using custom-designed circuits and power boards.
On the first day of TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan, alongside the competitions, various academic and technical sessions were held. Two events stood out in particular: the National Aircraft Carrier Forum and the “Mediterranean and Ottoman Maritime History” Conference.
The National Aircraft Carrier Forum was conducted by personnel and engineers of the Turkish Navy. During the forum, technical details regarding Türkiye’s future largest naval project—the national aircraft carrier—were shared. Lieutenant Aykut Demirezen outlined the work being carried out on the vessel’s main propulsion systems and noted that it would have a range of 10,000 nautical miles, enabling it to travel to New York and return without refueling. It was also stated that CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) systems would be integrated into the vessel to protect the crew against potential attacks.
Lieutenant Burhan Savran provided information on the vessel’s electrical infrastructure, revealing that it will have a total installed power capacity of 40 MW—sufficient to meet the simultaneous electricity needs of approximately 3,000 homes. A high-voltage level of 6,600 volts has been selected, and a sensor and alarm infrastructure is planned to enable remote control and fault monitoring of the systems.
Major Ebubekir Er stated that the electro-optical systems to be installed on the vessel will enable 360-degree surveillance and target tracking in combat environments where no radar emissions are made. It was also noted that close-in air defense systems, electronic warfare capabilities, sonar, and underwater decoy systems will be integrated into the platform. Major Yavuz Alp Oğuzalp added that the vessel will employ stealth technologies to reduce its radar cross section and use underwater explosion shielding systems, emphasizing that the “survivability concept” is the fundamental feature distinguishing this vessel from others.
The conference “The Mediterranean and Ottoman Maritime History” was organized with the participation of historian Professor Dr. İlber Ortaylı and Rector of the National Defense University Professor Dr. Erhan Afyoncu. Ortaylı emphasized that the Ottoman Empire’s naval power developed in conjunction with artillery technology and that Türkiye’s current strength as a major actor at sea is rooted in this deep historical legacy. Afyoncu highlighted the strategic importance of the fortresses built by Fatih Sultan Mehmet in Çanakkale and explained examples from Ottoman naval history of the land-to-ship maneuvering tactic employed during the conquest of Istanbul.
On the first day of TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan, modern and historical platforms of the Turkish Navy were exhibited. At the opening of the event, TCG Anadolu participated by passing through the Istanbul Strait under the TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan program. In addition, TCG İstanbul, TCG Burgazada, TCG Oruçreis, TCG Nusret, TCG Sakarya and TCG Hızırreis were displayed at the shipyard area.
The yacht Savarona was also present at the venue. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and his wife Emine Erdoğan visited the Savarona during the program and were greeted by naval personnel with the traditional “silstre whistle.”
Among the demonstrations, activities conducted by the Submarine Attack (SAT) and Submarine Defense (SAS) Commands stood out. Virtual reality zones were also established for visitors, offering an interactive experience through the “Mavi Vatan Time Tunnel” that showcased Türkiye’s maritime history.
The second day of TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan was held on 29 August 2025 at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard Command. As of this day, TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan was opened to the general public. Visits were organized in three sessions: 09:00–12:00, 12:00–15:00, and 15:00–18:00.
On the second day’s program, the conference titled “Türkiye’s Near Sea Basins and International Law” was held. Retired Council of State member and maritime law expert Ali Kurumahmut delivered a speech at the conference.
Kurumahmut began his address by greeting the young participants of TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan and emphasized the necessity of understanding the geopolitical importance of Türkiye’s sea basins and the international legal frameworks governing them to fully comprehend Türkiye’s maritime power. He discussed Türkiye’s maritime heritage and jurisdictional claims in the Black Sea, the Aegean Sea, and the Eastern Mediterranean, explaining the significance of the concept of “Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)” under international law.
He highlighted that the EEZ, introduced into legal literature by the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, encompasses a broader jurisdictional area than the continental shelf alone. He noted that the continental shelf is no longer sufficient as a standalone concept, while the EEZ includes the exploration and exploitation of the seabed, subsoil, water column, and both living and non-living resources within it.
Kurumahmut also regarded the absence of a legal framework in Türkiye such as the “Black Sea Exclusive Economic Zone Law” as a deficiency. He stressed the necessity of declaring an EEZ in the Eastern Mediterranean and the imperative to extend territorial waters from 6 to 12 nautical miles. He pointed out that other Mediterranean coastal states have recorded their maritime sovereignty claims with the United Nations, but no such records exist for Türkiye. In this context, he particularly emphasized that Türkiye must define its EEZ boundaries.
Finally, he stated that the exploitation of seabed resources is Türkiye’s inherent right, but adopting the internationally recognized EEZ concept is essential. He added that Türkiye requires more qualified professionals in the field of maritime law.
As part of the second day’s events, the “Artificial Intelligence in Naval Warfare Industry Forum” was held. The forum featured presentations by five officers from the Turkish Naval Forces Command.
Engineer Lieutenant Tuğberk Yönet explained the application of artificial intelligence in threat scenarios targeting warships. He described how guided missiles or fighter jets approach vessels not directly but through evasive maneuvers, aiming to confuse onboard sensors and conceal engagement intent. He noted that position data collected by ship sensors are transmitted to the Combat Management System, where AI models classify these maneuvers. He stated that this approach enables early threat detection, fire-control optimization, and rapid response to asymmetric threats.
Engineer Lieutenant Korhan Ayhan addressed the use of artificial intelligence in electronic warfare. He explained that the expectation from AI is to mimic human cognitive behavior by perceiving its environment, learning from it, and taking actions based on those inferences.
Engineer Captain Ragıp Zilci defined combat management systems as software that acts as a central brain coordinating sensors and weapons aboard a vessel. He explained the concept of “augmented intelligence,” which refers to the use of artificial intelligence to enhance human capabilities. He emphasized that in high-data-density combat environments, human intelligence alone cannot adequately handle image recognition, data analysis, and decision-making processes. Therefore, he stressed that combining human and artificial intelligence enables more effective surveillance and decision cycles.
Engineer Lieutenant Gürkan Orhan presented ongoing work on detecting threats from underwater sources. He stated that the goal is to utilize autonomous systems in mine warfare through human-machine collaboration to identify threats in the shortest possible time.
Engineer Lieutenant Deniz Küçükkaya Çalışkan provided information on AI-based anomaly detection tools. She described systems that consolidate data collected from radar and other surveillance systems at a central hub and distribute it to relevant units. She noted that AI provides decision support to prevent suspicious vessels from being overlooked in dense commercial maritime traffic.
Following the forum, an Interactive Combat Management System Workshop was organized to provide participants with practical knowledge. This event featured hands-on demonstrations of how combat management systems operate.
On the second day of TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan, various exhibitions and special areas were featured, including the Mavi Vatan Time Tunnel and the Mavi Vatan Painting Competition Exhibition.
The Mavi Vatan Time Tunnel presented the history of Turkish maritime endeavors in chronological order. Within the tunnel, developments in Türkiye’s naval power, fleet structure, and defense industry under the Mavi Vatan doctrine were displayed. Visitors examined informative panels detailing the historical dimensions of Mavi Vatan and related initiatives.
The Mavi Vatan Painting Competition Exhibition was organized under the theme “Mavi Vatan Through Children’s Eyes.” Works displayed in front of the Türkiye Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation) booth were created by primary and middle school students. The artworks depicted elements of Türkiye’s maritime domain and themes related to Mavi Vatan.
As of the second day, certain elements of the Turkish Navy were opened to public visits. In this context, the submarines TCG Sakarya and TCG Hızırreis were accessible to visitors. Attendees had the opportunity to observe the internal structure and equipment of the submarines. The fact that TCG Hızırreis had not yet been officially commissioned and was equipped with systems developed by HAVELSAN attracted particular interest from visitors.
TCG Sakarya and TCG Hızırreis will remain open for visits until 31 August, the final day of TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan. In addition, naval vessels such as TCG Anadolu, TCG İstanbul, TCG Burgazada, TCG Oruçreis, and TCG Nusret are also on display within the event area.
The third day of TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan began with celebrations for 30 August Victory Day. A concert was performed by the First Class Band of the Northern Sea Area Command. Citizens arriving at the event area formed long queues in front of naval vessels, holding Turkish flags. There was high demand to visit TCG Anadolu, resulting in extended waiting times for entry. Visitors included children, families, and people from various age groups.
On the third day of TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan, demonstrations were conducted by the Underwater Attack (SAT) and Underwater Defense (SAS) commandos. The scenario was based on a hostage crisis that occurred in 2011 aboard a sea bus. In the scenario, commandos secretly boarded the vessel and neutralized terrorists carrying explosives.
ATAK boats were used in the demonstration, showcasing the commandos’ capabilities in both surface and underwater operations. After rescuing the hostages, the commandos unfurled the Turkish flag to salute the audience. Closed-circuit diving equipment was introduced to attendees. These devices enable attackers to move underwater without producing bubbles and approach target ports undetected using a compass.
At the conclusion of the demonstration, technical information was provided regarding the special equipment and operational methods used by the commandos.
On the third day of TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan, the musical group “Yüksek İrtifa”, composed of personnel from the General Directorate of Security’s Aviation Department, performed a concert. The group included musicians serving in the security forces, who took the stage with performances on electric guitar, bass guitar, drums, and vocals. The concert featured Turkish rock, Anatolian rock, and various classical pieces.
STM Defense Technologies Engineering and Trade Inc. participated in the event with its marine engineering and indigenous design projects. Projects led by STM include the production of Ada-class corvettes and İ-class frigates, the modernization of Ay-class submarines, and the renewal of Preveze and Gür-class submarines. STM also announced that the “National Assault Boat” project has reached the sheet metal cutting stage and confirmed that the STM 500 submarine has been prepared for production. Export activities were highlighted, including the 2024 contract signed with Malaysia, corvette projects for Ukraine, and the construction of logistics support vessels for Portugal. Submarine modernization projects for Pakistan were also presented.
President of the Presidency of Defense Industries Haluk Görgün visited the Hızırreis submarine. Görgün conducted inspections alongside commanders and technical teams. In his subsequent remarks, he emphasized that Hızırreis was constructed using national engineering capabilities and holds strategic importance for Türkiye’s naval power. He also noted that he reviewed projects presented by youth in the Unmanned Underwater Systems Competition and Underwater Rocket Competition, stating that advancements in this field contribute significantly to defense engineering.
On the final day of the program, Minister of Interior Ali Yerlikaya visited the event area. Beginning his visit by touring booths, Yerlikaya examined Türkiye’s developed maritime technologies and recorded progress in the field.
First, he visited the TAİS Shipbuilding and Technology booth to learn about new solutions in naval shipbuilding. He then proceeded to the Ministry of Interior’s booth, where he received briefings on underwater vehicles and solutions used by the General Directorate of Security, Gendarmerie General Command, AFAD, and Coast Guard Command.
Yerlikaya later visited the Savarona Yacht, learning about its history. He then toured TCG Nusret, one of the Turkish Navy’s flagship vessels. Finally, after visiting the Coast Guard Command vessel, Yerlikaya delivered a press statement. In his remarks, he highlighted Türkiye’s successes in defense industry supply and exports, and outlined the Coast Guard Command’s responsibilities and duties at sea.
On the final day of the program, the Seamanship Competitions, organized by the Naval Forces Command, were held across multiple categories. These competitions reflected maritime disciplines and traditions.
On the final day of the event, under a special program for children, a model-building activity for the PİRANA Kamikaze Unmanned Maritime Vehicle (KÜDA) was held at the stand of Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation (MKE).
Model kits of the PİRANA KÜDA were distributed to primary and secondary school students. Under the guidance of instructors, children assembled the models and launched them into water-filled pools. During the activity, children were informed about the capabilities the vehicle aims to bring to Türkiye’s defense industry.
Fen Bilimleri teacher and robotics coding instructor Gamze Üstünsoy stated that the activity contributed to developing children’s technical and engineering skills. Participation spanned a wide range of students from first grade in primary school to high school level.
TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan concluded with a closing ceremony held on 31 August 2025 at the Istanbul Shipyard Command. Attendees included representatives from the organizer, Türkiye Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation), the Ministry of Industry and Technology, the Ministry of National Defense, personnel from the Naval Forces Command, competing teams, and numerous citizens.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Selçuk Bayraktar, Chairman of the TEKNOFEST Board and T3 Foundation Board of Trustees, expressed pride in completing another TEKNOFEST on the horizon of Mavi Vatan. He emphasized that this event was more than a competition of projects:
"Here, the steel will, brilliant intellect, and unwavering passion for complete independence of Türkiye’s producing and thinking youth—the TEKNOFEST generation—came to life. I extend my deepest gratitude to our President, whose vision has opened our horizons and led our National Technology Initiative. I also extend my sincere appreciation to the esteemed lady who, with great care, restored the historic Savarona yacht and returned it to our seas and our nation. I thank wholeheartedly our partners—the Ministry of National Defense, the Ministry of Interior, the guarantor of our peace—and our host, the Naval Forces Command—for their strong collaboration that made this immense synergy possible."
Bayraktar drew attention to the "invisible heroes" whose tireless efforts made this success possible, saying: "I thank our TEKNOFEST stakeholders, our competition organizers ASELSAN, ROKETSAN, and ASFAT, all participating institutions, and the dedicated team members at T3 Foundation. And of course, I convey my deepest gratitude to our noble nation, which once again demonstrated to the entire world that just as a handful of soil on land is sacred, so too is a handful of seawater—our Mavi Vatan is not without an owner."
Receiving the loudest applause for declaring that "the youth deserve it," Bayraktar continued:
"You spent sleepless nights in workshops, wrote code, battled waves, and chased your dreams. With your projects—from autonomous underwater vehicles to unmanned maritime systems—you have become co-authors of Türkiye’s bright future. You have shown the world what the grandchildren of Barbaros and heirs of Piri Reis can achieve in the 21st century. You are the strongest bridge connecting our noble nation’s past to its future. Every idea you displayed here is a solid stake planted on the horizon of complete independence. No victory endures without your intellect and sweat. It is you, bright-eyed youth, who will write the next chapter of this beautiful country. I applaud each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart."
Bayraktar invited participants to TEKNOFEST Istanbul, to be held from 17 to 21 September.
Commander of the Naval Forces, Admiral Ercüment Tatlıoğlu, stated in his speech that TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan not only increased young people’s interest in technology but also strengthened their love and awareness of Mavi Vatan.
Tatlıoğlu added: "When the technological achievements of our youth are combined with the consciousness of ownership over Mavi Vatan, Türkiye’s naval power will grow even stronger. The labor and accumulated knowledge displayed here are a strong indication that future advanced maritime systems will be designed by Turkish engineers."
Tatlıoğlu emphasized: "The importance of a technologically equipped navy and the young minds shaping it grows day by day as we strengthen our dominance at sea. Mavi Vatan is strategically vital not only for protecting Türkiye’s rights and interests at sea but also for securing our natural resources and ensuring sustainable maritime sovereignty."
Tatlıoğlu concluded his remarks: "As the Turkish Naval Forces, we continue to strengthen ourselves with national and indigenous defense industry products—ships and weapon systems—drawing strength from our 944-year history since our founding in 1081. Today, we are simultaneously constructing 36 platforms, from our national submarines to our aircraft carrier. This achievement is among the rarest in the world. Our advanced submarines, indigenously built ships, and technologically advanced fleet enhance our effectiveness in Mavi Vatan and safeguard our national security."
At the closing ceremony of TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan, the results of the four-day competitions were announced, and awards were presented to the winning teams. The awards were presented by Selçuk Bayraktar, Chairman of the TEKNOFEST Board and T3 Foundation Board of Trustees, and Admiral Ercüment Tatlıoğlu, Commander of the Naval Forces.
The awarded competitions and winning teams are as follows:
The ceremony concluded with a group photograph featuring the Naval Forces Command units that contributed to the event.
TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan 2025 was held at the Istanbul Shipyard Command from 28 to 31 August 2025. On 24 August before the festival a naval parade took place in the Bosporus with many vessels participating including TCG Anadolu. Throughout the event unmanned systems competitions conferences forums sports competitions and cultural programs were conducted. At the closing ceremony on 31 August teams that achieved rankings received their awards and the festival concluded.
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August 27, 2025
Istanbul Strait Passage
August 27, 2025
Opening Day (28 August 2025)
August 27, 2025
Technology Competitions and Results
August 27, 2025
Blue Homeland Drawing and Essay Competition
August 27, 2025
Sports and Maritime Competitions
August 27, 2025
Naval Assets and Exhibitions
August 29, 2025
TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan – Day 1
August 29, 2025
Participation and Speech of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
August 29, 2025
Selçuk Bayraktar’s Opening Speech
August 29, 2025
Commencement of Competitions
August 29, 2025
Forums and Conferences
August 29, 2025
Displayed Platforms and Demonstrations
August 30, 2025
TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan – Day 2
August 30, 2025
Conferences and Academic Events
August 30, 2025
Forums and Presentations
August 30, 2025
Exhibitions and Special Areas
August 30, 2025
Naval Vessels and Submarine Visits
August 31, 2025
TEKNOFEST Mavi Vatan – Days 3 and 4
August 31, 2025
Victory Day Events
August 31, 2025
SAT and SAS Commando Demonstrations
August 31, 2025
"Yüksek İrtifa" Concert
August 31, 2025
Corporate and Official Participation
August 31, 2025
Seamanship Competitions
August 31, 2025
Model Building Activity for the PİRANA Kamikaze Unmanned Maritime Vehicle (KÜDA)
August 31, 2025
Closing Ceremony