Türkiye is boldly advancing its maritime capabilities with plans for a domestic aircraft carrier, aiming to surpass the recently commissioned TCG Anadolu and establish a formidable naval presence.

During President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to the Design Project Office at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard in February 2024, the Turkish Navy’s indigenous aircraft carrier project was unveiled, marking its official introduction.

Previously, there had been confusion within defense media circles, mistakenly linking this project with the 2nd LHD project.

However, it became clear during the visit that it was an independent endeavor focused on developing an aircraft carrier. Some features of the future carrier were visible in the photographs taken during the visit.

In April, the commander of the Istanbul Naval Shipyard hosted journalists, providing them with updates on significant naval projects.

The media tour primarily focused on the aircraft carrier project, with officials seizing the opportunity to reveal additional specifications during the briefing. According to statements from the Design Project Office to journalists, the aircraft carrier’s design and construction will be entirely domestically sourced, showcasing Turkiye’s self-reliance in this vital naval endeavor.

The carrier is planned to feature three runways, with two for takeoff and one for landing. Initially, there will be no onboard catapult system; instead, a modular ramp will be utilized.

However, there are long-term plans for Turkish engineers to develop an indigenous catapult system to replace the modular ramp eventually.

The initial deployment plan includes 50 aircraft, with 20 to be stationed on deck and 30 housed in the hangar.

These aircraft include the naval version of TAI’s Hurjet light attack aircraft, TAI ANKA-III unmanned jet fighter, Baykar’s Bayraktar KIZILELMA unmanned jet fighter, and TB-3 UCAV. Turkish defense officials, as reported by Defence Turkey, have hinted at the possibility of increasing the number of aircraft as the project progresses.

The Design Project Office is collaborating closely with TAI and Baykar for the project. The carrier is set to be equipped with a 32-cell MIDLAS VLS (Vertical Launching System) and four Gökdeniz Close-in Weapon systems for self-defense.

In February 2024, the carrier’s technical specifications were revealed, showing no alterations.

It will maintain dimensions of 285 meters in length and a displacement of 60,000 tonnes.

Additionally, the carrier will feature Combined Gas Turbine and Gas Turbine (COGAG) propulsion, ensuring a top speed of 25 knots.

The Design Project Office (DPO) plans to incorporate four LM2500 gas turbines as the main propulsion system. Participants also received information regarding the potential development of a naval version of the KAAN fighter jet, though further details are required to confirm this rumor.

Relevant articles:
– Could Turkey Really Become an Aircraft Carrier Powerhouse?, The National Interest
– New details about Turkiye’s future aircraft carrier, navalnews.com
– Turkey Looks to Become the Next Aircraft Carrier Powerhouse, The National Interest
– Türkiye reveals plans for largest-ever domestic aircraft carrier, Daily Sabah