The Turkish Ministry of National Defence has announced the commencement of construction of two new surface vessels and a submarine intended for the Turkish Navy.
The Istanbul Naval Shipyard has initiated the cutting of the first steel for the development of a MUGEM-class aircraft carrier and a TF-2000-class air warfare destroyer, while the Gölcük Naval Shipyard has begun work on a MILDEN-class diesel-electric attack submarine.
The MUGEM-class aircraft carrier, measuring 285 meters in length and weighing 60,000 tonnes, will accommodate up to 50 aircraft, which will include multi-role jets and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Notably, the carrier will not feature catapults; instead, all fixed-wing aircraft will be launched using a ski jump located at the bow.
The TF-2000-class air warfare destroyer will measure 149 metres in length and will have a displacement of 8,300 tonnes, positioning it among the largest vessels within the MILGEM class of surface combatants. Its weaponry will consist of a 127mm naval gun, surface-to-air missiles, and surface-to-surface missiles.
The MILDEN-class diesel-electric attack submarine will be 80 metres long and have a displacement of approximately 2,700 tonnes. It will be armed with torpedoes and will also possess land attack and anti-ship missile capabilities.
