President showcases naval power – What are the messages?

The presentation of the SALVO armed unmanned surface vessel and KAYRA loitering unmanned surface vessel, jointly developed with Türkiye, during President Ilham Aliyev’s visit to the Azerbaijani Navy on September 6 has drawn attention in terms of the development of Azerbaijan’s naval capabilities. The deployment of the new technologies in the Caspian Sea demonstrates that Baku-Ankara defence cooperation is expanding into the maritime domain as well.

But what does Azerbaijan’s naval cooperation with Türkiye mean for the geopolitical balance in the Caspian Sea?

Political scientist and Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science Shabnam Hasanova spoke to TodayPress TV about the issue.

She noted that Azerbaijan is entering a new stage in its naval strategy by expanding its capabilities in the field of maritime security:

“A new security architecture is taking shape in the world. States are facing various threats. In this regard, the security of airspace, maritime areas and outer space has also become one of the key areas. The security of ships, ports and maritime infrastructure is among the main issues facing both major powers and middle powers.”

The analyst stressed that Azerbaijan is also strengthening its status as a middle power in the field of maritime security:

“The presentation of the SALVO and KAYRA systems during President Ilham Aliyev’s visit to the Azerbaijani Navy demonstrates the beginning of a new stage in Azerbaijan’s naval strategy. This is not simply the acquisition of a weapons system; it is about strengthening Azerbaijan’s defence and deterrence capabilities in the Caspian Sea through modern and flexible technologies.”

The political scientist said that deepening cooperation with Türkiye is of particular importance given the presence of Russian and Iranian naval capabilities in the Caspian Sea:

“I would not regard these steps as being directed against any particular state. Azerbaijan is making use of Türkiye’s technological capabilities to strengthen its own security. Azerbaijan-Türkiye strategic partnership is expanding beyond land and air to include maritime security as well. This process will strengthen Azerbaijan’s position and weight in the Caspian Sea.”

The expert stressed that the SALVO and KAYRA projects should not be viewed as the beginning of military bloc formation.

The political scientist added that deepening defence industry integration with Türkiye not only increases Azerbaijan’s ability to make independent and flexible decisions in the Caspian Sea, but also strengthens its position as a deterrent actor.

Jala Rovshan