IDEF 2023: MKE unveils Uça air launched smart underwater mine


First showcased at IDEF 2023 in Istanbul, Uça is a strategic guided ammunition designed to be a potent offensive tool against enemy ships and submarines.


Russian Vyborg Shipyard laid the Purga ice class coastguard ship of project 23550 925 001 Uça air launched smart underwater mine at IDEF 2023. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)


 Its purpose is to convert MK-84 general-purpose bombs into sophisticated naval mines through the integration of a guidance kit and an intelligent target detection and mine firing unit.

Uça is designed to be carried by various air platforms, including F-16, F-4, Akinci, and Aksungur. These aircraft and UAVs are capable of performing remote offensive minelaying on enemy naval base exits and transit routes, all the while minimizing their exposure to danger.

One of the unique features of Uça is its potential to be the world's first long-range (70 km) smart underwater mine. The MKE Uça project is focused on transforming MK84 general purpose bombs into precise guided seabed mines, thereby enhancing the range and precision of the strike.

Moreover, Uça is equipped with a submarine acoustic IFF (Friend or Foe Identification) system. It is outfitted with pressure trace, vibration, magnetic anomaly, and sound sensors to aid in accurate target identification. Filled with insensitive explosives, the mine is engineered for safety and effectiveness in naval warfare.