Turkish navy architects reveal design for 148-meter air defence warship

Turkish naval architecture company Kuasar Marin Engineering has unveiled design images for a new air-defence frigate concept.

The proposed design for the KM-F148 air defence frigate will measure 148 metres in length and carry a crew of 229. Its propulsion system will combine two diesel engines, gas turbines, and controllable-pitch propellers, as announced on Kuasar Marin's website this week.

This setup is expected to deliver a top speed of 30 knots, a cruising speed of 18 knots, and an operational range of around 5,000 nautical miles.

The frigate’s air-defence capabilities will include surface-to-air missiles housed in 48 vertical launch system cells, along with two close-in weapon systems. Its sensor suite is planned to feature search, tracking, navigation, and fire-control radars.

Although primarily designed for anti-air warfare, the ship will also support anti-surface and anti-submarine missions. Planned armaments include a 127mm naval gun, anti-ship missiles, torpedoes, and a hull-mounted sonar system.

A flight deck will allow operations by a 10-ton helicopter or a smaller unmanned aerial vehicle.

Alongside the unveiling of the frigate concept, Kuasar Marin has taken steps to strengthen its role in Türkiye’s naval industry. In September 2025, the firm signed a strategic cooperation agreement with RMK Marine, an established Turkish shipbuilder with extensive experience in naval construction. 

Speaking at the announcement, RMK Marine General Manager Utku Alanç said the partnership is intended to combine RMK’s production infrastructure and international quality standards with Kuasar Marin’s expertise in designing military vessels. The agreement focuses on joint business development and a production partnership.

The company has also expanded internationally by establishing Kuasar UK, extending its presence beyond the Turkish market. The move aligns with broader efforts by Turkish defence and maritime firms to strengthen links with Western markets and supply chains.

By Nazrin Sadigova