A newly developed Turkish drone, dubbed ‘Tlay,’ is generating meaningful interest in the defense sector due to its unique design and capabilities, drawing parallels to the Soviet-era Ekranoplan.The drone utilizes ground effect, flying at extremely low altitudes – typically within a few meters of the surface – to achieve increased efficiency and reduced radar visibility. This technology, pioneered by rostislav Alexeyev in the 1960s with the KM and Lun-class Ekranoplans, had largely faded from prominence until now.

The Tlay drone boasts a payload capacity of 30 kilograms (approximately 66 pounds), allowing it to carry a diverse range of equipment. Its operational concept frequently enough involves single-flight missions, mitigating concerns about corrosion from saltwater exposure, a potential issue for prolonged use in maritime environments. Even in reconnaissance roles, the drone’s limited lifespan reduces the impact of saline water on its components.

While primarily operating at low altitudes, the Tlay is capable of ascending to a maximum altitude of 100 meters (approximately 328 feet) when required, enabling vertical take-off and landing capabilities. This allows for flexible deployment and operation in varied terrains.

A key feature of the Tlay drone is its integrated artificial intelligence (AI). Turkish engineers are developing the capability for swarm operations, where multiple drones collaborate and divide tasks to achieve a unified objective. This networked approach substantially enhances operational effectiveness and resilience. The resurgence of Ekranoplan principles in the Tlay drone represents a notable advancement in unmanned aerial vehicle technology.