A Signing Ceremony Was Held for the Sermet Research Vessel, Set to Boost MATAM's Research Capabilities

A signing ceremony was held for the delivery of the Sermet Research Vessel, donated to MATAM through the contributions of Chairman of the Board of Dearsan Shipyard Aziz Yıldırım and the Yaltırak Family. The event was hosted by Istanbul Harbour Master Mustafa Kıran, with the participation of ITU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Mandal and MATAM Director Prof. Dr. Cenk Yaltırak.

ITU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Mandal stated that the signing held on October 1, 2025, at the Istanbul Harbour Master’s Office for the Sermet Research Vessel marked a major milestone for the Marmara Active Fault Hazard and Risk Application and Research Center (MATAM).

Prof. Dr. Mandal emphasized that RV Sermet will enable more comprehensive research into the earthquake hazards and risks posed by active faults in the Sea of Marmara. He noted that the vessel will provide critical data for disaster preparedness and serve as a shared platform for learning and production among researchers from various disciplines. Our Rector extended his thanks to all academics—especially Prof. Dr. Cenk Yaltırak—and to Aziz Yıldırım for their contributions in bringing the vessel to MATAM.

Following maintenance, the necessary equipment brought from Canada for research will be installed on RV Sermet. With a crew of three and a scientific team of eight, RV Sermet will continue its work in Turkish waters, mapping active faults and dating their recurrence intervals. The vessel is expected to embark on its first research expedition in the Bosphorus at the end of 2025.