STM’s new VTOL UAV combines the general ISR capabilities of similar UAVs with lightweight unguided munitions and STM’s smart effectors. The technical specifications of the new UAV were shared on social media by the firm.
The UAV has an endurance of two hours with a range of 30 km and 10 kg of payload capacity. The UAV can operate from naval platforms in addition to ground-based use.
Munition options include two TUNGA smart munitions or KARGU FPV kamikaze UAVs developed by STM, and four 81 mm mortar rounds.
TUNGA was also unveiled alongside STM’s VTOL UAV concept during IDEF2025 as a smart free-fall munition. The guided munition with an AI-supported optical seeker can reach a distance of 200 m from 800 m. Compared to a mortar munition, TUNGA offers improved provision with better chances against moving targets.
A fixed-wing VTOL, compared to a pure multi-copter configuration, offers better endurance figures during horizontal flight due to lower power demand.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor:Özgür Ekşi
