WDS 2026: Azerbaijan Introduces KALAN Naval Drone for Littoral Strike Operations.

Azersilah Defence Industry Holding unveiled the KALAN Mini naval drone at the World Defense Show 2026 in Saudi Arabia, presenting it as a compact system for maritime reconnaissance and kamikaze-type strike missions. The debut signals Azerbaijan’s push to grow its unmanned warfare portfolio and expand its footprint in the global defense export market.

Showcased at the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, the KALAN Mini marks Azerbaijan’s latest step into naval unmanned systems. Developed by Azersilah Defence Industry Holding, the compact drone is designed for reconnaissance and one-way strike missions at sea. The system reflects Baku’s continued investment in indigenous drone production following years of operational experience. Positioned for littoral warfare, it targets coastal surveillance and precision attack roles. Its international debut signals Azerbaijan’s intent to compete in the growing global market for maritime UAVs.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The KALAN mini is designed as a remotely operated and programmable unmanned surface vehicle capable of operating in manual or automatic modes (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The KALAN mini is designed as a remotely operated and programmable unmanned surface vehicle capable of operating in manual or automatic modes. According to the manufacturer, it is available in a single-unit configuration as well as in a swarm-controlled version, implying a command and control architecture that enables the coordination of multiple platforms simultaneously. This operational flexibility positions it for both maritime surveillance missions and direct strike operations against designated targets.

The system measures 1,500 millimeters in length and 400 millimeters in width. Its compact size facilitates transport and deployment from small boats, coastal areas, or port facilities. The stated operational range is 20 miles, approximately 32 kilometers, while the maximum speed is listed at 30 kilometers per hour. These characteristics place the KALAN mini within the category of small unmanned surface vehicles suited for littoral environments and confined maritime spaces.

The KALAN mini carries an explosive charge of TNT weighing 5 kilograms. This configuration confirms its intended use in direct impact scenarios against light naval targets, port infrastructure, or coastal installations. The relatively limited payload suggests employment against specific objectives rather than large naval vessels, while remaining capable of causing localized damage or disrupting maritime security arrangements.

The availability of an automatic operating mode indicates that the drone can follow preprogrammed routes, reducing reliance on continuous operator input and enabling missions in environments where communications may be constrained. The swarm-control option allows for coordinated operations in which several units converge on a target, potentially complicating defensive responses. This concept aligns with current developments in unmanned maritime systems, where the multiplication of small platforms compensates for the limited size of each vehicle.

Azersilah Defence Industry Holding’s participation in the World Defense Show 2026 also reflects the country’s broader presence at the Saudi-hosted international exhibition. In a context characterized by diversification of industrial and technological partnerships, the display of unmanned naval solutions such as the KALAN mini indicates an effort to broaden the commercial reach of Azerbaijan’s defense industry. Through this international platform, Baku highlights its capacity to develop and manufacture autonomous systems while positioning itself in markets where demand for unmanned maritime platforms continues to evolve.