The Turkish Navy’s first domestically produced frigate, TCG Istanbul (F-515), demonstrated its advanced combat capabilities during recent live-fire drills conducted off the coast of Gökçeada, Çanakkale.
The exercises highlighted Türkiye’s growing defense industry, with the frigate utilizing state-of-the-art, nationally developed weapon, radar, and sensor systems. In coordinated operations, TCG Istanbul successfully engaged and neutralized land, sea, and air targets with precision strikes using indigenous munitions.
The Turkish Ministry of National Defense shared footage from the drills with the message: “We will continue to strengthen the power inherited from our history.”
TCG Istanbul: A Symbol of Türkiye’s Naval Modernization
Developed by STM, TCG Istanbul is the first frigate in Türkiye’s İstif-class program. The vessel measures 113 meters in length, boasts a displacement of 3,000 tons, and can reach speeds up to 29 knots. With its extended operational range, the frigate is capable of transatlantic missions, including sailing from Istanbul to New York without refueling.
Gökdeniz CIWS and STAMP Systems in Action
During the exercises, TCG Istanbul executed precise strikes on predetermined targets. The first phase involved coordinated naval gunfire against land-based targets, all of which were hit with high accuracy.
The drills continued with engagements at sea, where the ASELSAN-produced Gökdeniz Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) effectively neutralized a surface target. Almost simultaneously, the vessel’s indigenous radar systems detected an incoming aerial threat. Gökdeniz swiftly redirected fire and eliminated the airborne target without hesitation.
The surface threat scenario was not over. ASELSAN’s STAMP remote-controlled weapon station was deployed to engage and destroy the remaining maritime target under heavy fire, demonstrating the vessel’s layered defense capabilities.
A Strategic Milestone for Türkiye’s Blue Homeland
The successful live-fire tests underscore Türkiye’s commitment to strengthening its naval forces with modern, domestically developed platforms and technology. As part of its “Blue Homeland” doctrine, the TCG Istanbul represents a significant step in enhancing national defense autonomy and maritime deterrence.
