Turkey Launches Major Naval Defense Projects

Turkey’s defense sector is making significant strides with the recent announcement from the Turkish Defence Ministry. During a weekly press conference, a spokesman revealed the commencement of three major naval projects: the MUGEM aircraft carrier, the TF-2000 destroyer, and the MILDEN national submarine. These developments mark a pivotal moment in Turkey’s efforts to enhance its naval capabilities and assert its presence in regional waters.

MUGEM: Turkey’s Future Aircraft Carrier

The MUGEM project, short for Milli Uçak Gemisi, was first introduced to the public in February 2024. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan visited the Design Project Office at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard, where the project gained significant attention. By April 2024, journalists were granted a behind-the-scenes look at the shipyard, where Turkish naval officials provided updates on the carrier’s design and capabilities.

MUGEM is designed with an optimized hull form, which enhances its seakeeping, stability, and maneuverability. These features have been validated through internal simulations, ensuring that the carrier can operate effectively in various sea conditions. Notably, the bow design of MUGEM reduces fuel consumption by 1.5% and improves underwater noise propagation, which is crucial for stealth operations.

The aircraft carrier will feature three runways—two for takeoff and one for landing. Initially, it will utilize a modular ramp design instead of a catapult system. However, Turkish engineers are already developing an indigenous catapult system to further enhance the carrier’s operational capabilities in the future. MUGEM is expected to accommodate up to 50 aircraft, including both manned and unmanned systems. The current plan allocates space for 20 aircraft on the deck and 30 in the hangar. Notable aircraft slated for deployment include the naval version of TAI’s Hurjet light attack aircraft and Baykar’s Bayraktar KIZILELMA unmanned jet fighter.

For self-defense, MUGEM will be equipped with a 32-cell MIDLAS Vertical Launching System and several Gökdeniz Close-in Weapon Systems. Additionally, six Aselsan 25mm STOP Remote Weapon Systems will provide close-range defense against asymmetric threats. With a length of 285 meters and a displacement of 60,000 tons, MUGEM is poised to become a formidable asset for the Turkish Navy.

TF-2000: Advanced Air Defense Destroyer

The TF-2000 project represents the final phase of Turkey’s MILGEM program, initiated in July 2017. This project aims to develop advanced air defense destroyers capable of detecting and neutralizing a range of aerial threats, including guided and ballistic missiles. The destroyers will be the largest vessels constructed under the MILGEM program, with a planned displacement of 8,300 tons.

The TF-2000 destroyers will measure 149 meters in length, with a beam of 21.5 meters and a draft of 5.75 meters. They will be powered by a combination of gas turbines and diesel engines, achieving a top speed of over 26 knots. The destroyers will feature a 127mm main gun for surface engagements and a 96-cell indigenous Vertical Launch System (MİDLAS) for launching various advanced munitions.

Among the munitions deployable from MİDLAS are indigenous surface-to-air missiles and the GEZGİN land-attack missiles. The destroyer will also carry 16 ATMACA anti-ship missiles for engaging naval and coastal targets. For close-in defense, the TF-2000 will be equipped with a RAM-like point defense missile system and Gökdeniz CIWS, providing a critical layer of protection against incoming threats.

The primary sensor for air surveillance will be the CAFRAD radar, capable of tracking over 2,000 contacts within a 450 km range. This advanced sensor suite, coupled with an integrated sonar system and the ADVENT combat management system, will enhance the destroyer’s operational effectiveness in various scenarios.

MILDEN: The National Submarine Initiative

The MILDEN project, or Milli Denizaltı, aims to create a new class of submarines for the Turkish Navy. This ambitious initiative began in March 2012 and has now entered the construction phase after completing the conceptual design. The submarines are expected to be delivered to the Turkish Navy in the early 2030s.

The MILDEN submarine will measure over 80 meters in length and have a surface displacement of approximately 2,700 tons. It will feature an Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, which enhances stealth and operational endurance. This technology allows the submarine to remain submerged for extended periods, reducing its vulnerability to detection.

Equipped with advanced weapon systems, MILDEN will carry the AKYA heavyweight torpedo for anti-ship and anti-submarine warfare. It will also be capable of launching the ATMACA anti-ship missile and the GEZGİN land-attack missile, extending its strike capabilities to land-based targets. The design and engineering works for MILDEN are being carried out at the Gölcük Naval Shipyard, where a dedicated team of engineers is focused on developing this cutting-edge platform.

Turkey’s commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities through the MUGEM aircraft carrier, TF-2000 destroyer, and MILDEN submarine reflects a strategic move to bolster its defense posture in an increasingly complex regional security environment. These projects not only signify technological advancements but also underscore Turkey’s ambition to become a key player in maritime defense.