Wikipedia has some background information on Type-23; some of the ships have undergone an upgrade (more specifically, an MLU), whereas some of the hulls have just had a Life extension upgrade (overhauling of necessary equipment and machinery to keep the ship operationally safe and sound beyond the planned life). As a result, this page does not contain the common information; instead, refer to Wikipedia.

This is neither the Turkish Navy’s first look at the Type-23, nor is it the Turkish Navy’s first evaluation of a second-hand platform for flotilla extension. Since 2010, many evaluation, inspection, and feasibility studies have been conducted on a number of platforms that are being used by other fleets and are slated for retirement. One well-known instance was adding more Oliver Hazard Perry hulls to the Gabya Class flotilla that was operating as an air defence frigate in the Turkish Navy. Additionally, Type 23 was presented to TN in the 1990s with a unique weaponry package but lost to MEKO 200;

Type 23 with sea zenith was presented to the Turkish Navy in the 1990s
Image Source: Ibrahim Sunnetci

The ship has a special propulsion system that has not been found on TN’s warships up to this point. It is called the CODELOG system, and it consists of two RR gas turbines for reaching high speeds and four diesel gen-sets for cruising at lower speeds. The ship’s air defence and point-defense capabilities aren’t much better than those of the Istanbul Class or the current Gabya-Class. However, Type 23 has more endurance at high sea states than Istanbul Class frigates (Type 23 is predicted to be operational at 6/7 and endurance up to 9) and has a longer autonomous range (7500 compared to 4700 NM).

The ship’s foremost contribution to Turkish Navy would be the most recent active towed, variable depth sonar Sonar 2087 and bow mounted Sonar 2150. And only for this reason, it might make sense for the future LHD Task Force to guard the flotilla from undersea dangers and perform ASW operations in blue waters. There is no immediate need for Sonar 2087 because Aselsan’s DUFAS (Low frequency, variable depth sonar) is undergoing tests and investigations to build a multi-static sonar system for TF-2000 and other platforms, along with sonars mounted on unmanned systems. Although Anadolu LHD is anticipated to enter service by the end of 2023 following rigorous sea testing, there is now a sense of urgency because the building of the Istanbul Class and the Barbaros Class MLU have both been years behind schedule. Moreover, TF2000 is not expected in active service before 2030, Type 23’s could be an interim – urgent solution to save the day, not the tomorrow of TN.

According to the most recent information, Turkish Navy is less likely to purchase Type-23 due to “alienation” to main ship subsystems. To upgrade the Combat Management System with ADVENT, the Fire Control Radar with Aselsan’s AKREP, the Torpedo Decoys with Hzr TAKS’s countermeasures, and the 114mm/30mm weapon systems with MKE 76mm and Aselsan’s stabilised cannons, an upgrade-modernization-commonization approach was contemplated. The platform would be difficult for the Turkish Navy in this situation because it is not possible to change the propulsion system, which is kept standard in the other ships. (Classes in Gabya, MEKO, Ada, and Istanbul employ MTU / LM2500 with largely standard propulsion-related equipment)

If upgraded, Type 23s are not anticipated to enter service before 2024. They are anticipated to be delivered in batches of two, with the first two ships arriving and being upgraded before the next two ships arrive and enter service no earlier than 2026. The Royal Navy, also, does not intend to let go of Type 23 in whole as Russian invasion of Ukraine warms the arctic waters.

The post On premises of flotilla expansion: Turkish Navy evaluates transfer of Royal Navy’s Type-23 (Duke Class) first appeared on DefenceHub.

Under the leadership of Ataturk, Turkiye began manufacturing aircraft in the 1920s. By the 1940s, Turkiye had a flourishing array of indigenous aircraft designs. Unfortunately, the arrival of the 1950s spelled the end of the Turkish aviation industry. The Marshall Plan and the admission into NATO caused irreparable harm to the progression of local aircraft programs and the Turkish defence industry at the time. All progress was gone. It was only in the 1970s that the Turkish defence industry restarted due to arms embargoes. Since then, each decade has been full of steady progress. In preparation for the hundredth year of the Republic, major Turkish defence projects have been hastened. This includes four jet-powered aircraft, three of which are purpose-built combat platforms.

Turkish Aerospace TFX

The TFX is a 5+ generation twin-engine stealth air superiority fighter that will eventually replace the F-16 as Turkiye’s primary fighter jet. Originally intended to accompany the F-35 in order to make up for the F-35’s drawbacks, the TFX is shaping up to be an F-22 on steroids. Preliminary specifications suggest that it may outperform both the F-22 and F-35, which is not surprising as the TFX will likely serve as the basis for a 6th gen fighter further down the line. The TFX is the largest of all 5th gen fighters, with a length of 21 metres. Its engine nozzles are wide apart in order to accommodate a sizeable rear-facing sensor package. This almost SU-57-like rear end is perhaps the most notable difference between the prototype and the concept mock-up. The TFX’s first flight has been pushed back from 2025 to 2023.

“The first flight was planned for 2025. Instead, it will fly at the end of 2023.”

CEO of Turkish Aerospace, Temel kotil

The TFX has a much larger nose than its rivals, which has led to speculations about its radar. Some have dubbed it a “stealth AWACS” due to the large radar housing, which could host 2000+ GaN T/R modules. Along with side and rear radar and a slew of other sensors, the TFX’s enormous frontal radar will give it an immense advantage in air-to-air combat.

Turkish Aerospace TİSU

The TİSU, codenamed Anka III, is perhaps one of the most elusive programs in the Turkish defence industry. Spotted years ago in an infographic, it was only officially revealed recently. It is an unmanned stealth flying-wing bomber.

Its flying-wing design and roof intakes mean that it is optimised for deep bombing missions. It prioritises stealth and internal payload capacity over manoeuvrability and speed.

With the advent of the KERKES project, Turkish drones can operate in GPS-denied airspace. This is important for the TİSU, as it can fulfil its role even against a force with advanced jamming capabilities. This would include predetermined high-value targets such as bunkers, command centres, hangars, ammunition depots and runways, along with dynamic targets such as tanks and air defence systems, which the AI could autonomously target.

The TİSU is expected to perform its first flight in March-April.

Baykar Kızılelma

Baykar’s Kizilelma is the first of its kind. This sleek aircraft bridges the gap between traditional fixed-wing drones and fighter aircraft. Once ready, it will be a carrier-capable stealth multirole unmanned fighter. Its design is geared towards high maneuverability with its canards, a departure from all other UCAVs. It’s clear that Baykar is betting big on AI with the Kizilelma, and it may just pay off in the end.

Having made its first flight on December 14, the Kizilelma represents not only a milestone for Baykar, but also a giant leap forward for the Turkish defence industry. Its maiden flight represents the dawn of the jet age for the Turkish military aviation industry.

The Kizilelma is expected to enter the inventory before 2025, essentially acting as a stop-gap fighter before the introduction of the TFX. Like the infamous TB2, the Kizilelma is a far cheaper alternative to manned combat aircraft. It offers some 5th gen fighter capabilities at a price lower than most 4th gen fighters. This presents a budget option for smaller militaries. More interestingly, it is a highly economical force multiplier for serious militaries. It can be unleashed upon an enemy airforce and act as a “sky terminator” which relentlessly hunts down enemy fighter jets in contested airspace. Such an attack by a group of Kizilelmas would send enemy fighters into disarray. Alternatively, the Kizilelma could be used for targeting helicopters, AEW&C, cargo planes and drones, allowing manned 5th gen fighters to focus on other fighter jets.

Conclusion

Turkish military aviation is advancing at a pace reminiscent of US-USSR aerospace competition in the Cold War. The sanctions, embargoes and removal from the F-35 program have only strengthened Turkiye’s defence industry. Thus it can be said that the Anti-Turkish lobbyists in Washington have shot themselves in the foot.

The post The sudden emergence of Turkiye’s jet-powered combat aircraft first appeared on DefenceHub.

Revealed at SAHA Expo 2022, the RUAV-724 has some surprisingly impressive specifications and innovative features.

Powered by a turbojet engine, the sleek, cruise missile-like RUAV-724 can travel at a maximum speed of 1,000 km/h. This is significantly faster than current autonomous delivery vehicles and slightly faster than most cargo jets. It will have a cargo capacity of 150 kg. This makes it ideal for the rapid delivery of critical components or weapons. Its range is up to 2,500 km, meaning that it would be capable of resupplying missions deep into contested territory.

The RUAV-724 is capable of vertical take-off with an added booster. This enables deliveries to be dispatched from within tight spaces, such as city streets or naval vessels. This is similar to many kamikaze drones, which use a booster to take off before switching to their main engine. Sortie Cargo has emphasised that the RUAV-724 has an advanced braking system which eliminates the need for a long landing strip.

One of the key features of the RUAV-724 is that it can drop cargo with a parachute. This is a game changer for the resupply of special forces units that are deep in enemy territory or troops who need to be resupplied in rugged terrain. Due to the relatively low cost and the fact that there is no risk of losing pilots, this aircraft is perfect for light cargo delivery in dangerous airspace. It also opens up the possibility for new tactics. For instance, infiltration teams can enter hostile territory without weapons or other gear. When the time comes, they can be quickly and safely supplied by airdrops from the RUAV-724.

All in all, the RUAV-724 is an innovative concept. It combines the speed and appearance of a cruise missile with the reusability and autonomous features of a UAV, yet it functions as a small cargo aircraft. Italy has already signed a contract. The smaller Sortie Cargo RUAV-A has been successfully tested. Meanwhile, Turkey plans to host flight tests of the 6-metre RUAV-724 later in the year.

The post The RUAV-724 is a fascinating fast autonomous cargo concept first appeared on DefenceHub.

Called Tayfun (Typhoon), the new missile is a short range ballistic missile (SRBM). Built by Roketsan, it joins a growing family of longer range solutions for the Turkish Armed Forces.

Though the unveiling of the Tayfun came as surprise, it was expected that Roketsan would release an evolution of the existing Bora, which had an export version named Khan with a maximum range limited to 280 km. According to CNN Türk the Tayfun successfully hit a target 561 kilometres away, just over twice the range of the Khan tactical ballistic missile. The maximum range is classified, but is expected to be just under 1000 kilometres, typical of SRBMs

An interesting point about the Tayfun is that it may be optimized to hit naval vessels. Several years ago, Turkish defence officials had stated that a second iteration of the Bora was being developed. It was said that the Bora II would not only have a range in excess of 500 km, but would also be capable of striking ships. It is almost certain that “Tayfun” is the new name for the Bora II and that the name which is the Turkish translation of “typhoon” is in reference to its naval attack capabilities.

As the Tayfun has only been officially revealed today, it will continue to be shrouded in mystery for a while. Though it can be speculated that it will have mid-course maneuvering and a quasi-ballistic trajectory similar to the Bora, with a much higher terminal speed. As a strategic weapon, it is unlikely that specifications and capabilities will be fully released to the public.

The post Türkiye tests mysterious Tayfun missile first appeared on DefenceHub.

Canik revealed on Monday that the M2F has passed its qualification tests and is ready for production. The Canik M2F has a much higher fire rate than the M2 QCB’s 450-650, which is standard for M2 Browning-based weapons. At 950 rounds per minute, the M2F is ideal for saturation fire. According to the General Manager at SYS, the MF2 was designed for use on or against aircraft. Therefore a fire rate of under 900 is insufficient.

Current guns (M2’s in the Turkish inventory) have a rate of fire of 550. This is not enough for aircraft. It needs to be over 900. For this reason we raised the rate of fire to 950 on this model

General Manager at SYS, Utku Aral (SYS is the parent company of Canik Arms)

The M2F has been in design for 4 years. Canik is known for its quality guns and the M2F is no different. Built with the aid of advanced coordinate measurement machines, the M2F will be built with precision to ensure maximum reliability.

A twin variant is currently being designed. Images show a design with an anti-aircraft sight coupled with a holographic sight. The twin variant shown in the pictures is suitable for use on platforms such as RHIBs, patrol vessels and utility or scout helicopters. This twin configuration could also be modified for use on fixed-wing aircraft or mounted on attack helicopters. It could also be used on ground vehicles for protection from low-flying aircraft or saturation fire on enemy positions.

The M2F is expected to enter the Turkish Armed Forces inventory soon. A number of nations have expressed their interest in the product, and sales are expected after full production commences

The post Canik To Produce 950 Round Per Minute HMG Along With Surprise Twin Version first appeared on DefenceHub.

Among the most elusive projects of the Turkish defence industry, the Akbaba has been shrouded in mystery for years. Though little is known about it, more information has surfaced since the news of the firing tests. . According to İbrahim Sünnetci it will feature both a wideband passive radio frequency (RF) seeker and an active mechanically scanned RF seeker. Firing test footage exists, yet it is unavailable to the public.

Earlier this year the Kargi anti-radiation loitering munition was fully unveiled. Though both the Kargi and Akbaba serve a similar purpose, they are vastly different. The Kargi is a slow, truck-launched loitering munition with an extremely long range. Whereas the Akbaba is a supersonic anti-radiation air-to-ground missile. Both are designed to seek and destroy enemy radar but do so in distinct ways. Together with modified Simsek target drones, Cakir LIR (electronic warfare variant) and the JEMSAH supersonic decoy drone, the Akbaba and the Kargi will provide immense SEAD capabilities to the Turkish Armed Forces.

The post Turkey Test Fires Akbaba Ramjet-Powered Anti-Radiation Missile first appeared on DefenceHub.

Roketsan, Turkey’s largest missile & rocket company, has added the 4th addition to its ATGM family. The Karaok will be Turkey’s first domestic shoulder-launched ATGM. Like the Javelin, it has a standard range of 2.5km and uses its infrared seeker for fire and forget function. Once the operator fires it, there is no need to guide it manually, the operator can seek cover immediately. This has proven immensely effective in Ukraine, where the Javelin has been used by mobile infantry to ambush tanks and other vehicles.

Once introduced, the Karaok will be a key component in the modernization of the Turkish military. Turkish vehicles already carry new generation ATGMs. However, shoulder-fired anti-tank weapons in the Turkish inventory currently lack any guidance. Therefore, the Karaok will be a major step forward for the lethality of Turkish infantry forces.

The Karaok recently passed its firing tests. It is expected to enter the Turkish Armed Forces inventory this year.

The post Roketsan Karaok to enter Turkish army inventory this year first appeared on DefenceHub.

A similar panel arrangement was seen in concept photos. Upon close inspection, serrated indentations appear to surround the nose and all panel openings throughout the aircraft. Indicating a strong emphasis on a low RCS. These serrations are featured on all modern stealth aircraft including the F35, B2 and J20. A Zinc-Chromate coating is clearly visible through the frontal panels, suggesting that this will be a working prototype once complete.

The Kizilelma, unlike other drones, is optimized for air-to-air combat. Not only does it feature a stealthy airframe and AESA radar, but it is also going to be highly manoeuvrable. Later models will be supersonic. It will essentially be an AI-driven, unmanned fighter jet, capable of multi-role missions.

The post Turkey’s Fighter Drone Under Construction first appeared on DefenceHub.