Turkish-Developed Through-Wall Radar System Debuts Internationally, Aiding Venezuelan Quake Relief Efforts

STM, a leading entity in Turkey’s burgeoning defense industry, has deployed its indigenously developed Through-Wall Radar (TWR) system, designated DAR, for its inaugural international operational mission. Following the recent devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, specialized Natural Disaster Search and Rescue (DAK) teams from the Turkish Armed Forces’ Humanitarian Aid Brigade Command are actively integrating this advanced technology into their critical search operations amidst the rubble. This marks a significant milestone for a system that previously proved instrumental in successfully rescuing over 50 individuals from the debris of the destructive February 6th, 2023, seismic events in Turkey.

Developed by STM Savunma Teknolojileri Mühendislik ve Ticaret A.Ş. with entirely domestic resources and engineering expertise, the DAR system has consistently demonstrated its efficacy in challenging environments. Its deployment in Venezuela directly follows its distinguished performance during the Kahramanmaraş-centered seismic events, where it played a pivotal role in pinpointing survivors trapped beneath collapsed structures. Beyond its combat-proven utility, DAR is an integral asset within the inventories of the Turkish Armed Forces, the Gendarmerie General Command, and the General Directorate of Security, alongside civilian agencies such as the Denizli Metropolitan Municipality Fire Department and Erzincan’s Provincial Special Administration, showcasing its broad applicability.

The DAR system operates using Ultra-Wideband (UWB) signals to generate two-dimensional positional data of both static and dynamic targets in environments where direct visual access is impossible, such as behind walls or through thick debris. Its robust design allows for diverse operational applications, ranging from military and security-centric scenarios like hostage rescue, counter-terrorism operations, and internal security missions, to critical civilian functions. These civilian roles include post-disaster search and rescue efforts following earthquakes, avalanches, or fires, as well as combating illicit activities such as human trafficking and migrant smuggling.

Weighing approximately 6.5 kg, the DAR system excels at detecting faint biosignals. It accurately identifies the location of living individuals beneath rubble by sensing micro-movements, such as chest oscillations during breathing or subtle limb movements. Through its emitted RF signals, the device instantaneously conveys the presence of life behind an obstruction, precisely indicating its depth in meters and exact coordinates. Engineered for single-operator handheld deployment, the versatile system can also be mounted on a tripod or similar support structures and remotely controlled via a tablet interface. Equipped with advanced battery technology, DAR ensures continuous operation for over four hours, facilitating extended search and rescue endeavors.

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