After undergoing an extensive combat systems modernization, the Turkish Navy’s TCG ORUÇREİS (F-245) frigate has officially rejoined active duty as one of the most advanced and powerful elements of Türkiye’s naval deterrent, assuming a critical role in the protection of Mavi Vatan — the “Blue Homeland.”
The modernization was carried out as part of the BARBAROS-Class Frigate Combat Management System (BSYS) Development Project, led by the Turkish Naval Forces Command and executed by HAVELSAN within the framework of the ADVENT Combat Management System (CMS) Program. The successful completion of sea trials and operational acceptance marked a major milestone in Türkiye’s indigenous naval technology development efforts.
Over 30 Integrated Systems and Next-Gen Combat Capability
The upgraded TCG ORUÇREİS now hosts a fully integrated ADVENT CMS that brings together more than 30 new and existing subsystems — both national and foreign — into a unified and responsive combat environment. These include:
- Indigenous and NATO-standard weapon systems such as ATMACA and Harpoon anti-ship cruise missiles
- Mk41 Vertical Launch System (VLS)
- ESSM surface-to-air missiles
- 127mm and 25mm naval guns
- Phalanx CIWS (Close-In Weapon System)
- AKREP fire control radar, surveillance radars, and tactical data links
- National IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) system
- Ship-wide data distribution infrastructure
With these systems, TCG ORUÇREİS is now capable of engaging in high-intensity multi-domain warfare, including air, surface, sub-surface, electronic, and asymmetric threats.
Advanced Tactical Features and Integrated Decision Support
HAVELSAN’s ADVENT CMS has also equipped the frigate with cutting-edge features such as:
- Full integration with tactical data link networks
- AI-assisted, rule-based decision support systems
- Real-time battle training modules that do not interfere with operational readiness
- Seamless navigation and mission support systems
- Tactical control over embarked helicopters and aircraft
These enhancements dramatically improve the ship’s situational awareness and allow for faster, more accurate threat detection and engagement in real time.
A Major Software Engineering Feat
As part of the project, HAVELSAN developed over 6 million lines of code and integrated more than 700 distinct software applications into a resilient and modular architecture. The system features:
- Fully redundant network infrastructure
- 4K-resolution image processing and video digitization
- Ergonomically redesigned Combat Information Center (CIC) and Tactical Operations Center
- Modernized power distribution and cooling systems
The ship’s performance has been thoroughly validated through extensive testing, including integration tests, harbor acceptance tests, and sea trials conducted across Gölcük, Yalova, Bandırma, and the Gulf of Saros in 2024.
Live-fire exercises confirmed the system’s effectiveness, with the frigate scoring direct hits on land, air, and sea targets, proving its enhanced strike capabilities.
Active Participation in Key Naval Exercises
In 2025, TCG ORUÇREİS played a front-line role in Türkiye’s major naval exercises Denizkurdu-1 (January) and Denizkurdu-2 (May), demonstrating its operational readiness and its value as a strategic asset in the Turkish Navy’s modernization vision.
With the integration of ADVENT CMS, TCG ORUÇREİS is not only the most modern warship in the fleet but also a powerful symbol of Türkiye’s growing capacity for indigenous defense innovation. Its redeployment marks a turning point in the country’s ability to field next-generation maritime warfare systems — both for national defense and for future export potential.
