The developer of the Toloka unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) series has unveiled an updated model of the TLK-150 kamikaze underwater drone, marking its first public appearance in two years.
The drone was showcased during a demonstration of the Ukrainian military-industrial complex’s latest advancements to Western partners at the Support Ukraine summit. The TLK-150 is featured in a video published by Volodymyr Zelenskyi.
The last time this UUV was shown dates back to 2023 during its first-ever public display at Brave1. Since then, based on available photos and footage, its design has undergone noticeable changes.
The most apparent modification is the relocation of its electric motors from the stabilizers to the rear of the hull. This adjustment has reduced the drone’s overall dimensions, making it easier to transport.
The hull and rudders have undergone more significant changes. The keel and horizontal stabilizers in the central section, which previously housed the engines, have been removed entirely. Now, both the engines and control surfaces are positioned in the tail, giving the TLK-150 a more streamlined, torpedo-like appearance.
Overall, this latest version looks closer to a serial production model rather than the prototype presented in 2023. It is, therefore, highly likely that the TLK-150 will soon enter service with the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
The TLK-150 is an underwater kamikaze drone; though the exact weight of its warhead has not been disclosed, estimates suggest it falls between 20 kg and 50 kg. The drone measures 2.5 meters in length and has an operational range of 100 km. It is equipped with a day camera and a thermal imager for nighttime operations, a GPS, and communication antennas, all located on its mast protruding above the water surface.
Beyond the TLK-150, the Toloka underwater kamikaze drone family includes larger, more powerful variants. The TLK-400 measures 4 to 6 meters, has a range of 1,200 km, and carries a warhead weighing up to 500 kg. Additionally, the largest TLK-1000 variant spans 4 to 12 meters, boasts an operational range of 2,000 km, and can carry a payload of up to 5,000 kg.
