Turkish Navy Warships: MILDEN, MUGEM, and TF-2000
The Turkish Navy is embarking on an ambitious project to construct three domestically produced warships, marking a significant step in the nation’s defense capabilities. The vessels include a submarine named MILDEN, an aircraft carrier called MUGEM, and a destroyer designated as TF-2000. Recently, the first symbolic weld for the MILDEN submarine was completed at the Gölcük Shipyard, serving as a milestone for the project. Meanwhile, the initial sheet metal cutting for the aircraft carrier and destroyer took place at the Istanbul Shipyard, further showcasing Turkey’s advancements in naval engineering.
The introduction of these warships reflects Turkey’s commitment to enhancing its maritime strength. The MILDEN submarine, in particular, is designed for extended underwater missions, allowing it to operate stealthily and efficiently. As the Turkish Navy continues to modernize its fleet, these new additions are expected to play crucial roles in securing national interests and maintaining regional stability.
National Submarine: MILDEN
The MILDEN, or National Submarine, measures over 80 meters (262 feet) in length and has a displacement of approximately 2,700 tons. Designed for prolonged underwater operations, it aims to improve stealth capabilities significantly compared to existing submarines. Captain Izzet Emre Afacan, the Chief Engineer at the MILDEN Design Office, noted that this submarine will be able to remain submerged longer, carry a heavier weapons load, and operate at greater depths.
Equipped with advanced armaments, the MILDEN will feature the high-speed AKYA heavyweight torpedo and the precision-guided ATMACA anti-ship missile, both developed by Turkish missile manufacturer Roketsan. The submarine is anticipated to join the Turkish Navy in the 2030s, representing a leap forward in the nation’s underwater warfare capabilities.
National Aircraft Carrier: MUGEM
The MUGEM, or National Aircraft Carrier, follows Turkey’s first unmanned aerial vehicle carrier, TCG Anadolu, and is set to enhance the country’s naval aviation capabilities. With a displacement of 60,000 tons, the MUGEM measures 285 meters (935 feet) in length and 75 meters (246 feet) in width. Reports indicate that this warship will be able to accommodate up to 50 aircraft, including naval versions of the Hürjet light combat aircraft and various combat drones.
Designed with a short take-off and barrier-arrested recovery configuration, the MUGEM promises to provide the Turkish Navy with advanced operational flexibility. Under the oversight of the Navy’s Directorate of Design Project Office, the carrier is planned to be constructed entirely with indigenous resources, boasting enhanced capabilities over its predecessor, TCG Anadolu.
TF-2000 Destroyer: A New Era in Naval Defense
The TF-2000 destroyer is being designed to tackle aerial threats, including both guided and ballistic missiles. Its specifications include a 127mm main gun, two 25mm remote-controlled weapon stations, and a 35mm Gökdeniz close-in weapon system. With dimensions of 149 meters (489 feet) in length and a width of 21.3 meters (70 feet), the destroyer has a displacement of 8,300 tons.
In terms of air defense capabilities, the TF-2000 can detect threats from up to 450 kilometers (280 miles) away. It is equipped with a 96-cell vertical launch system that can deploy Siper and Hisar missiles, as well as Gezgin cruise missiles, significantly enhancing its combat readiness. Powered by a combined diesel and gas (CODOG) propulsion system, the TF-2000 can achieve speeds of up to 26 knots (30 miles/48 kilometers per hour), positioning it as a formidable asset in the Turkish Navy’s fleet.
