Long queues in Istanbul to visit Turkish Navy flagship “TCG Anadolu” PHOTO

Residents of Istanbul and visitors to are flocking to the port of Sarayburnu to visit “TCG Anadolu”, Türkiye’s largest naval ship and the world's first UAV strike carrier.

Kilometre-long queues formed on the pavements from Eminönü and Ahırkapı to the Sarayburnu harbour to see the ship, which entered combat duty on April 10, according to Anadolu.

Residents of the metropolis began flocking to Sarayburnu in the early hours of the morning. Military personnel let in all comers, from small to large. They are checked thoroughly, then sent to wait in a large tent with chairs, and from there they are let onto the deck in groups.

Townspeople and children explore the huge ship with interest and take commemorative photos with their mobile phones. The visitors are welcomed and guided at all stages by the military.

The tanks, amphibious vehicles and ground vehicles are of particular interest on the first deck of the ship.

The aircraft on the topmost deck is also eye-catching.

Earlier, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the Turkish Navy's flagship, the amphibious assault ship TCG Anadolu, is a source of pride for the entire country.