Türkiye unveils eighth homegrown naval vessel TCG Içel
Türkiye has launched its eighth indigenous warship, the multirole frigate TCG Içel (F-518), during a ceremony at Sefine Shipyard in Yalova on Monday.
The project, signed on April 6, 2023, between the Secretariat of Defence Industries (SSB), the shipyard consortium TAIS, and defence contractor STM, aims to produce seven Istif-class frigates. Two of these vessels are currently under construction at Sefine Shipyard.
Designed for surveillance, reconnaissance, patrol, anti-submarine warfare, air defence, self-defence, and search-and-rescue operations, the TCG Içel can operate in all weather conditions up to sea state five (waves of around four metres). It will also protect maritime transport, counter potential terrorist threats at sea, and provide amphibious support.
Measuring 113 metres (370 feet) in length with a displacement of around 3,200 tonnes, the frigate is equipped with a combined gas turbine and diesel propulsion system. It can reach speeds of 29 knots, with an operational range of 5,700 nautical miles at 14 knots and 4,000 nautical miles at 19 knots, consuming 95 percent of its fuel. The ship can remain deployed at sea for up to two weeks with its onboard provisions and water capacity.
Its helicopter deck accommodates 10-tonne helicopters or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The TCG Içel integrates a wide range of indigenous systems, including the MKE 76mm naval gun, Gökdeniz close-in air defence system, Midlas vertical launch system, and Atmaca anti-ship missiles. Domestic radar and electronic warfare systems such as a 3D air/surface search radar, fire-control radar, electro-optical tracking system, EW suite, and the ADVENT network-centric combat management system will also be fitted.
Built with contributions from 200 Turkish suppliers, the vessel features more than 70 percent locally produced components, underscoring Türkiye’s growing self-sufficiency in naval defence production.
