The key facts

  • The Mercan 100 combines mid-wave and short-wave infrared cameras and a daylight TV camera in a single unit
  • The system features a 360-degree panoramic surveillance mode and sector scanning
  • The Mercan 100 is compatible with combat management systems (CMS) and is equipped with a GPS/ES antenna

A new observation system for submariners

Turkish defense company Aselsan has developed the Mercan 100 optronic mast for submarines — an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance system designed to detect, track and identify targets in challenging maritime conditions. The report comes from Anadolu.

What the system includes

The Mercan 100 combines mid-wave and short-wave infrared cameras, as well as a daylight TV camera, in a single unit. Multispectral imaging allows the crew to conduct observation and gather visual intelligence under varying light and environmental conditions. To determine target positions, the system is equipped with an eye-safe laser rangefinder and optical ranging.

Operating modes and integration

The system supports 360-degree panoramic surveillance and sector scanning, enabling the crew to focus observation on a chosen direction, detect targets, and carry out tracking and positioning tasks. According to Aselsan, the electro-optical sensors enhance situational awareness by providing timely, high-quality information about the maritime environment around the submarine. The Mercan 100 can be integrated with combat management systems (CMS) and is fitted with a GPS/Electronic Support (ES) antenna.