Turkish Ministry of Defense Unveils Ambitious Aircraft Carrier ,Game-Changer in Naval Capabilities

Defense News ,Turkey :- The Turkish Ministry of Defense (MoD) has recently revealed the envisioned design and technical details of its upcoming aircraft carrier, providing a sneak peek into the nation's future maritime goals.

This new carrier, boasting dimensions significantly larger than Turkey's current TCG ANADOLU amphibious assault ship, will stretch to a length of 285 meters and possess a displacement of 60,000 tons. The increased size is strategically planned to accommodate a greater number of aircraft, although the specific types remain undisclosed at this point.

The accompanying image showcases several KAAN fighter jets on the carrier's deck, hinting at potential plans for a naval variant of Turkey's inaugural domestically developed fighter jet. Achieving this milestone would represent a substantial leap forward in the country's military self-sufficiency.

In addition to fighter jets, the carrier is anticipated to house a diverse array of aircraft, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) like the Bayraktar TB3 and KIZIELMA, as well as helicopters.

For takeoff and landing operations, the carrier will employ the Short Takeoff But Arrested Landing (STOBAR) system, a method already utilized by other nations such as Russia, India, and early China. This approach, recognized for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness compared to catapult-assisted launches, relies on a partially up-curved runway for takeoff and arresting gear for landing. Notably, the TCG ANADOLU currently uses a similar system for Bayraktar TB3 operations.

The carrier will be powered by a Combined Gas Turbine and Gas Turbine (COGAG) propulsion system, targeting a speed of 25 knots. This system, already employed on Turkey's D?MDEG logistic support ships, strikes a balance between power and efficiency, alleviating concerns about larger vessels maintaining pace with their escorts.

The unveiling of the aircraft carrier design symbolizes Turkey's expanding naval ambitions. The potential inclusion of a navalized KAAN fighter jet and the diverse range of aircraft capabilities emphasize the nation's dedication to advancing domestic military development. Although the project is still in its early stages, it holds the promise of reshaping the regional maritime landscape and presenting a significant leap forward in Turkish military capabilities.