ASELSAN published details on the new member of the MARLIN USV family, MARLIN ASW 100, developed to carry different types of sonars to support ASW missions.
The upcoming variant of MARLIN USV shares the same hull as the previously tested MARLIN 100 ASWLT, which can launch two to four lightweight torpedoes (Mk46, Mk54 and the upcoming ORKA from ROKETSAN).
Whereas MARLIN 100 ASWLT is the shooter, MARLIN ASW 100 is the sensor with a crane to carry and deploy different types of sonars. Two sonar types have been listed as the dipping sonar and the diver detection sonar. MARLIN ASW was also shown to have a provision for the DÜFAS 100-CU towed sonar.
Other Variants of MARLIN USV So Far
MARLIN is a family of 15 m-class modular hull USVs that can be fitted with extensions for conversion from a monohull to a trimaran in order to utilise extra equipment.
Over the years, various variants aimed at providing support in different ways have been developed and tested. New variants, such as MARLIN 100 ASW, are also in development.
Currently built variants of the MARLIN family include:
-MARLIN EW 100: First variant to be unveiled, can be fitted with ARES-2NC ESM or AREAS-2NC ECM systems
-MARLIN ASWLT 100: Second variant to be tested, different hull, can use the ZIPKIN 100D dual-tube fixed torpedo launcher for backwards launch of lightweight torpedoes
-MARLIN 100 ASuW: Third variant to be tested, fitted with an eight-round fixed launcher for KUZGUN KY surface-to-surface missiles with a range of 15 km
-Undesignated MARLIN for Anti-Ship Operations: Unveiled during IDEF2025, fitted with four ÇAKIR cruise missiles and TRAKON 30 RCWS
-Undesignated MARLIN with KMC Weapon System: Spotted in a SSB video for indigenous engines, carries ROKETSAN’s KMC weapon system capable of launching UMTAS ATGM or CİRİT laser-guided missile at the aft
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor: Özgür Ekşi
