MERCAN 100: 360 degree awareness for submarines

ASELSAN shared new promotional images of MERCAN 100 Submarine Optronic Mast System. The system, which the company announced with the message "360° awareness for submarines", enables the detection, recognition and tracking of targets in difficult sea conditions thanks to its advanced imaging capabilities.

MERCAN 100 is a new generation optronic mast that replaces classical periscopes. Unlike old periscope systems, it does not penetrate the submarine's pressure hull; It transmits the image and sensor data electronically into the submarine. This structure both saves space in the body and provides flexibility in positioning the periscope.

Day and night surveillance with three different cameras

According to the information shared by ASELSAN, the system performs imaging in different spectra with thermal, short wave infrared (SWIR) and daytime cameras. In this way, observation can be continued in conditions where visibility is restricted such as night, fog or haze. According to the details provided by Naval News, the MERCAN family includes a high-resolution thermal camera, Full HD day camera and SWIR camera; Images from different sensors are combined with image fusion technology to obtain a clearer picture.

The system also includes an eye-safe laser distance meter that measures target distance. ASELSAN states that integrated laser capabilities support target evaluation and that the system offers target positioning and tracking capabilities.

Fast environmental surveillance: 360 degree panorama

One of the prominent features of MERCAN 100 is its fast environmental surveillance mode. The system enables 360-degree panoramic surveillance to evaluate the situation around the submarine in a short time. Since the shorter the time the mast remains above water when the submarine is close to the surface, the risk of detection decreases, rapid scanning of the environment is of great operational importance. The system can also perform sectoral scanning focusing on a specific region.

The resulting image and target information support decision processes. MERCAN can be integrated into the submarine's combat management system and can operate independently when necessary. There is also an optional GPS and electronic support antenna option.

First to Type 209s, then to MILDEN

ASELSAN introduced the MERCAN family for the first time at the UDT fair in Norway in 2025 with the MERCAN 100 and MERCAN 200 models. According to Naval News, the company signed a contract to install optronic masts on the Navy's Type 209 class (Preveza and Gür class) submarines within the scope of mid-life modernization in 2024. The next step is expected to be the national submarine MİLDEN, built at Gölcük Shipyard.