Türkiye launches its 8th new national ship TCG Icel
Türkiye Unveils Advanced Multirole Frigate TCG Icel
Türkiye has officially launched its latest national ship, the multirole frigate TCG Icel (F-518), at a ceremony held at Sefine Shipyard in Yalova on Monday. This marks a significant milestone in the country’s naval capabilities, as the TCG Icel is part of a broader initiative to enhance maritime security and defense. The frigate is designed to perform a variety of missions, including surveillance, reconnaissance, and anti-submarine warfare.
Key Features and Capabilities of TCG Icel
The TCG Icel is the eighth vessel in Türkiye’s naval fleet, developed under a project initiated on April 6, 2023. This project involves a collaboration between Türkiye’s Secretariat of Defense Industries (SSB), the TAIS shipyard joint venture, and defense contractor STM, with plans to produce a total of seven Istif-class frigates. Currently, two of these frigates are under construction at the Sefine Shipyard.
Measuring 113 meters (370.7 feet) in length and displacing approximately 3,200 tons, the TCG Icel is engineered to operate effectively in various maritime conditions, capable of handling sea states up to five (approximately 13 feet or four meters). The frigate is equipped with a combination of gas turbine and diesel engines, allowing it to reach speeds exceeding 29 knots. It boasts an impressive operational range of 5,700 nautical miles at 14 knots and 4,000 nautical miles at 19 knots, with a fuel efficiency of 95%.
Designed for extended missions, the TCG Icel can remain at sea for at least two weeks, supported by its ample provisions and water capacity. The vessel features a helicopter deck that can accommodate 10-ton helicopters or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), enhancing its operational versatility.
Advanced Technology and Domestic Production
The TCG Icel is notable for its incorporation of advanced homegrown weapon systems, sensors, and software. Among its key armaments are a 76-millimeter gun manufactured by Turkish firm MKE, the Gokdeniz close air defense system, the Midlas vertical launch system, and Atmaca anti-ship missiles. These components reflect Türkiye’s commitment to developing indigenous defence technologies.
In addition to its weaponry, the frigate is equipped with sophisticated systems, including a 3D air and surface search radar, fire control radar, and an electro-optical search and tracking system. It also features an electronic warfare system and the ADVENT network combat management system, which will be integrated with its armaments for enhanced operational effectiveness.
The TCG Icel’s construction involved the collaboration of 200 supplier companies, achieving a domestic production content rate of over 70%. This initiative not only strengthens Türkiye’s naval capabilities but also supports the local defense industry, marking a significant step forward in national defense strategy.
