According to information initially shared on social media by an anonymous account named ‘Catfish Blues,’ known for providing niche insights into the defense industry, the tender for the project, described as the most significant and largest initiative under the leadership of the Engineering Department of the Turkish Navy Logistics Directorate, is expected to be launched in 2025.
“The most important and largest project we are currently working on is the construction of docks, piers and coastal convenience facilities for TCG Anadolu, AIP submarines and other naval elements in Aksaz. The project studies for this work have been completed and alternative financing solutions for the realization of the project, which will have an estimated cost of approximately 350 million Euros, are at a certain stage and we expect it to be tendered by the Ministry of National Defense in 2025.”
Rear Admiral (LH) Tayfun Öznel, Head of Engineering Department of the Turkish Navy’s Logistics Directorate
Adm. Öznel emphasized that the Turkish Navy is implementing its projects not only with national resources but also by utilizing NATO resources within the scope of NATO capability development activities. At present, the Turkish Navy is overseeing projects valued at approximately 360 million Euros under the Naval Capability Program plan. Moreover, as a recent development, six projects proposed by Türkiye during the program plan’s first update have been approved, securing additional support worth 290 million Euros.
On April 10, 2023, the Turkish Navy commissioned its new flagship, the TCG Anadolu, marking a significant milestone in its modernization efforts. Subsequently, on January 19, 2024, the new-generation fleet oiler TCG Derya, developed under the DIMDEG project, officially joined the fleet. As the Turkish Naval Forces strengthen with such large-capacity elements, the demand for expanded shelter and infrastructure at naval bases grows accordingly. With this project, it is anticipated that new jetties will be constructed to accommodate both the TCG Anadolu and the locally built aircraft carrier, which is currently in the project phase.
Studies on infrastructure to host USVs
The article in the magazine also highlights the Turkish Navy’s efforts toward the deployment of USVs (Unmanned Surface Vehicles). Admiral Öznel revealed that studies are currently underway to assess the infrastructure and superstructure requirements for establishing the USV Group Command in Didim, Aydın. This indicates that a dedicated group command will be set up in Didim, strategically located on the southern coast of the Aegean Sea. The new command is expected to serve as the hub for logistics, command, and control operations related to USVs, streamlining their deployment and management in the region.
Furthermore, it has been noted that studies are being conducted to determine the infrastructure requirements for USVs in key regions, including Aksaz, Foça, Çanakkale, Gölcük, Mersin, and Karadeniz Ereğli. This suggests a strategic intention to deploy USVs across these areas. Establishing the capability to station and operate USVs in critical regions along the seas surrounding the country on three sides will significantly enhance their ability to respond swiftly in times of crisis, bolstering the Navy’s operational readiness and flexibility.
As is widely known, the Turkish defense industry is actively engaged in developing a diverse range of Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) projects. Notably, the MARLIN, developed by Aselsan and Sefine Shipyard, and the ULAQ, produced by Meteksan and Ares Shipyard, have already been integrated into the naval inventory. These advanced USVs have participated in various exercises, showcasing the Turkish Navy’s commitment to pioneering capabilities in Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T). Additionally, the insights shared by a Turkish engineering admiral highlight that logistical planning is well underway to support the operational deployment of these cutting-edge assets, further solidifying their role in modern naval warfare.
