Regarding the MRSS, the Chief of the RMN Admiral Reza told Naval News that he is « still negotiating with the government to make sure it becomes a reality in the near future ».
In the meantime, at least four shipyards are now shaping their offer with a view to a potential RFP. Besides TAIS, other competitors include the Dutch Damen, France’s Naval Group and a Chinese shipyard. The Turkish yard MRSS ship may fulfill several roles, from amphibious operations support, force projection, and humanitarian and disaster relief operations.
The MRSS adopts a modern and stealth LPD design, mainly relying on a 2000 m2 flight deck which can spots up to three medium-sized helicopters, while two more can be stored in the flight deck hangar.
Moreover, the MRSS cargo capability includes a 1800 m2 roll-on/roll-off deck. The Ro-Ro deck is big enough to accommodate two LCM for heavy cargo needs, such as ship-to-shore transport.
Its two 4000 kW propulsion systems will allow it to reach a maximum speed of 18 knots and an operational range of 10,000 nm at 14 knots. The MRSS will be 170 meters-long for a displacement of 13,000 tons. It will manned by a crew of 150 sailors and will host more to 500 troops.
A LARS system will be mounted on the right side for Fast Interceptor Craft launch and recovery.
The TAIS MRSS proposal includes three types of weapon systems: 1 x 76 mm gun, 2 x 30 mm gun, and 2 x 12.7 mm machine gun.
