SAS commandos safely destroyed an unmanned maritime vehicle off Hopa, Artvin, after thorough assessments and security measures were implemented.
In the Hopa district of Artvin, an object identified approximately 500 meters from the shore, believed to be an unmanned maritime vehicle, was destroyed in a controlled manner by SAS commandos at sea.
Initially assessed as a drone, the object found off the coast of Hopa was determined to potentially be an unmanned maritime vehicle (UMV) following subsequent examinations. After the operation conducted by the Underwater Defense (SAS) teams affiliated with the Naval Forces Command, the vehicle was safely towed to a secure distance and rendered ineffective at sea.
The incident emerged on August 8 at around 16:35 when an object was spotted in the sea near the Sugören Fishermen's Shelter in Hopa. Following the report, marine police teams were dispatched to the area, and underwater imaging work was carried out.
Initial assessments focused on the possibility that the object could be an unmanned maritime vehicle. Considering the potential for explosive material, extensive security measures were implemented in the region.
As the object approached the shore, increased precautions were taken.
Artvin Governor Turan Ergün stated in a press release that the object had approached within approximately 50 meters of the shore due to the influence of the wind. Consequently, the coastal road was temporarily closed to traffic, while the maritime vehicle was monitored by Coast Guard teams.
Governor Ergün explained that due to the presence of fuel facilities at Hopa Port, precautions were heightened against the risk of an explosion. Additionally, a security perimeter of approximately 600 meters was established in the area.
After discussions with Ankara, SAS commandos were dispatched to the region. Following the inspections conducted by the teams, it was decided to tow the object to a safe location.
After the completion of the SAS teams' operations, the vehicle was towed to a safe distance from the shore. It was then destroyed in a controlled manner at sea.
Artvin Governor Turan Ergün stated after the operation was completed, 'Our SAS commandos arrived and carried out their work. The vehicle in question was towed to a safe distance and destroyed at sea. The issue has been resolved.'
There were no casualties or injuries reported in the incident.
As for which country or actor the object belonged to and how it reached the waters off Hopa, no detailed explanation has been provided by official authorities so far.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
