TCG İzmir (F-516) and TCG İzmit (F-517), two MİLGEM ISTIF class frigates built in cooperation with TAİS and STM under the coordination of the Presidency of Defence Industries, were launched.
Power Unleashed to the Sea: TCG İzmir
TCG İzmir, the sixth vessel of the MİLGEM project and the second member of the ISTIF class, was built at Anadolu Shipyard in Tuzla, Istanbul. The frigate, which has completed its hull construction, has entered the preparation phase for equipping activities following its successful sea trial. Following completion, the vessel is scheduled to join the Turkish Naval Forces.
The project, initiated by the Presidency of Defence Industries in April 2023, aims to complete the three warships within 36 months. It was announced that TCG İçel and TCG İzmit will follow TCG İzmir.
‘Three Vessels in 36 Months: A Great Success for Türkiye’
İsmail Demir, the then President of Defence Industries, evaluated the project and said, ‘The building of three vessels in 36 months, which is unprecedented in the world, is a source of great pride for Türkiye. This success is an important step in terms of demonstrating our defence industry capabilities.’
Making a Difference with its Technological Equipment
The ISTIF-class frigates, designed by STM, have a displacement weight of 3,100 tonnes and a range of 5,700 nautical miles (10,500 kilometres). The vessels, which can reach a speed of 29 knots (53.7 kilometres) per hour, make significant contributions to Türkiye’s Blue Homeland concept.
The TCG Izmir stands out for its advanced technology, weaponry and radar systems. The vessel is equipped with critical equipment such as the National Vertical Launch System (MİDLAS), HİSAR-D and SİPER Block-1 missiles, GÖKDENİZ close air defence system, ATMACA anti-ship missile, CENK-S 3D search radar, AKREP fire control radar and ADVENT combat management system.
To be ready for duty in 2026
The production of the vessel, which incorporates over 150 systems, involved the participation of 80 subcontractor companies. In accordance with the production process initiated in April 2023, the delivery of TCG İzmir to the Turkish Naval Forces Command is scheduled for April 2026.
This underscores Türkiye’s confidence in its domestic and national defence industry initiatives and its commitment to achieving the Blue Homeland goal.
