Turkish navy's ambitious leap: Aircraft carrier and more underway
As reported by the Naval News portal, the Turkish Navy has embarked on the construction of three major projects: the MUGEM aircraft carrier, the TF-2000 destroyer, and the MILDEN submarine. Consequently, an emerging maritime power can now be observed in the region.
The Turkish Ministry of Defence announced these initiatives during a press conference, and details were shared on the ministry's social media platforms.
New projects of the Turkish Navy
The steel-cutting ceremonies for the MUGEM and TF-2000 took place at the Naval Shipyard in Istanbul, while that of the MILDEN was held at the Naval Shipyard in Gölcük. These projects aim to enhance the operational capabilities of the Turkish fleet.
The MUGEM aircraft carrier, which will be unveiled in February 2024, will feature three runways and the capacity to carry up to 50 aircraft, including manned and unmanned units like the TAI Hurjet and Bayraktar Kızılelma.
The largest ship built under the new programme
The TF-2000 destroyer, part of the MILGEM programme, will be the largest ship constructed under this initiative. Its armament will include the MİDLAS missile systems and ATMACA anti-ship missiles, among others.
In development since 2012, the MILDEN submarine will feature an air-independent propulsion system, significantly enhancing its operational capabilities. It is expected to enter service in the early 2030s.
These projects are part of a broader strategy to modernise the Turkish Navy, with the aim of boosting its combat and operational abilities at sea. Turkish authorities underscore the importance of these investments for the nation's security.
Turkish aircraft carrier MUGEM
The MUGEM aircraft carrier has been designed to strengthen the Turkish Navy. It measures an impressive 935 feet in length and 236 feet in width, with a draught of 33 feet. Its displacement is 60,000 tonnes, and its maximum speed exceeds 25 knots. These attributes allow MUGEM to travel up to 10,000 nautical miles at its typical cruising speed.
The carrier's propulsion system, known as COGAG, employs four LM2500 gas turbines, each producing 23 MW, which makes the vessel particularly efficient. MUGEM can accommodate at least 800 personnel and has space for 50 unmanned and unmanned aircraft.
The ADVENT CMS combat management system enhances its advanced combat capabilities. Its innovative bow design contributes to a 1.5% reduction in fuel consumption and improves underwater noise reduction. The overall project showcases Turkey's high technological standards in modern warship construction.
