A strategic cooperation protocol has been signed between Istanbul Technical University (ITU) and Sefine Shipyard in the field of 'Unmanned Systems and Marine Robotics.'

Istanbul Technical University (ITU) and Sefine Shipyard have signed a cooperation protocol in the field of unmanned systems and marine robotics. Under the protocol, a joint laboratory will be established where R&D activities will be conducted in various strategic areas, ranging from autonomous ships to artificial intelligence-supported systems.

A cooperation protocol in the field of 'Unmanned Systems and Marine Robotics' has been signed between ITU and Sefine Shipyard. The protocol was signed by ITU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Mandal and Sefine Shipyard Executive Board Member Demir Koloğlu.

As part of the agreement, the ITU-SEFINE Unmanned Systems and Marine Robotics Laboratory will be established within ITU. In the laboratory, joint research and development activities will be carried out on autonomous ship technologies, digital twin applications for ships, unmanned marine and underwater vehicles, artificial intelligence-supported systems, and advanced testing and validation infrastructures.

Prof. Dr. Hasan Mandal stated that this approach, based on the joint value creation of the university and industry, will contribute to the development of research capacity, the implementation of innovative technologies, and the enhancement of practical training opportunities for students. Mandal also expressed that the training of qualified human resources is among the important goals of the collaboration.

In a statement made by Sefine Shipyard, it was emphasized that this strategic partnership, which combines academic knowledge with industrial experience, aims to contribute to the development of domestic and national technologies, the strengthening of critical capabilities, and the enhancement of Turkey's competitiveness in the field of strategic technologies.

As unmanned systems and autonomous platforms gain increasing importance globally in the maritime sector, the cooperation between ITU and Sefine Shipyard is considered a significant step in strengthening Turkey's research and development capacity in marine technologies.

Source: SeaNews Türkiye