Underwater Optical Communication System
As an innovative university–industry collaboration project, STM and Bahçeşehir University (BAU) have been continuing R&D activities under an agreement signed in 2012.
The project aims to deliver secure, undetectable, and unjammable optical communication capabilities for defense applications between submarines and helicopters, submarines and divers, as well as submarines and surface ships.
Currently, all underwater communication systems rely on RF technology. However, RF-based communication systems carry significant interception risks in operational environments, especially under transmission constraints, making them unsuitable in certain scenarios. In this context, the Underwater Optical Communication System is being developed as both an alternative and hybrid model to RF-based systems.
CoLink – Open-Air Electro-Optical Communication System
CoLink has been developed as an alternative to short-range RF and semaphore communication, intended for use by Fleet Commands, Special Operations ground forces, signal stations, unit formations, and surface ships performing close-formation maneuvers such as replenishment-at-sea (RAS).
During RAS operations, CoLink facilitates communication between ships and between replenishment stations, eliminating the need for SP telephone cables and jacks traditionally deployed via messenger lines.
It can also serve as an alternative to radio circuits used for coordination during approach and separation maneuvers in naval formations.
In land-based operations, CoLink provides secure, wireless communication between vehicles during convoys, between security towers at critical facilities, and in hazardous environments where explosive gases or munitions are present, where RF transmissions pose significant risks.
CoLink can replace radio communication with signal stations during covert port entries and exits where communication security is critical. For short-range communication (up to 600 yards), LED technology is used, while laser technology enables longer-range communication (up to 1,500 yards). For point-to-point long-distance links, the system is mounted on binoculars to ensure precise alignment between two stations.
- Undetectable, Unjammable, Uninterceptable.
- Prevents tracking of military platforms via radio transmissions.
- Suitable for applications such as guard towers, military convoys, G/M transfers, fuel depots, environments with explosion/fire hazards, pre-flight tower communications in air operations, naval close-formation maneuvers, and as an alternative to UHF and VHF communications in formation exercises.
- Requires no precise targeting or alignment.
CoDiver – Underwater Electro-Optical Communication System for Divers
CoDiver is developed for underwater voice communication for SAS-SAT Special Operations Forces and Class-1 divers. The system supports bidirectional communication and can be used with a full-face diving mask equipped with integrated microphones and headphones or with a specially designed throat microphone.
CoDiver allows divers to maintain communication with the dive supervisor on the surface platform serving as the dive support vessel, significantly enhancing dive safety by enabling effective voice communication during underwater operations.
CoLighting – Underwater Lighting System for Divers and Subsea Vehicles
CoLighting is an underwater lighting system designed to deliver high-accuracy light color underwater. It automatically adjusts its light spectrum based on water characteristics, allowing high-detail imaging regardless of depth. The system can be integrated into underwater vehicles or used in manned diving operations.
CoLighting finds application in underwater photography, recreational diving, and military operations thanks to its compliance with military environmental standards.
Designed to enhance underwater visibility for SAS-SAT Special Operations Forces, Class-1 divers, and shipyard divers conducting underwater hull surveys, CoLighting significantly improves visual and image quality in industrial underwater operations such as welding, hull surveys, mine neutralization, ROV operations, autonomous vehicle surveys, and underwater photography. During hull inspections, it makes deformations and cracks visible and assists in thorough inspections of sacrificial anodes. In submarine rescue operations, it contributes to more effective damage assessments and rescue efforts.
CoLighting detects missing parts of the visible spectrum and automatically adjusts the necessary wavelengths to enhance clarity. The LEDs on the system fill the entire visible spectrum, measuring and adjusting the white light level underwater. Operating linearly (even during LED modulation), the system prevents shadowing issues and eliminates flickering in video recordings.
- Prevents white-light hotspots, ensuring clearer and more detailed imagery.
- Environmentally friendly; does not disturb marine life and has no adverse effects on eye health.
- Designed to be handheld for divers yet features a scalable architecture for various applications.
Developed under university–industry collaboration with STM’s consultancy, CoLighting has been licensed under TÜBİTAK TEYDEB 1702 – Call for Supporting Patent-Based Technology Transfer.
Other Areas of Activity
While prioritizing Türkiye’s defense industry requirements, we diversify our technology-based operations to address the needs of both the public and private sectors, delivering innovative solutions across a broad spectrum.
