Türkiye begins construction of TF-2000 destroyer, Trakya aircraft carrier PHOTO

Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler has announced the commencement of construction for two significant military projects: the air defence destroyer TF-2000 and Türkiye's national aircraft carrier, Trakya.

Güler confirmed that work on both projects will move forward with the cutting of sheet metal for the MUGEM system and the TF-2000 in early 2025, as reported by Caliber.Az citing Defence Turk’s X page.

🔴🇹🇷Milli Uçak Gemisi için geri sayım

🔸Milli Savunma Bakanı Yaşar Güler: “TF-2000 hava savunma harbi muhribi ve millî uçak gemisinin tasarım faaliyetleri de başarıyla devam etmektedir. Önümüzdeki yılın ilk aylarında, bu iki proje kapsamında sac kesme faaliyetlerinin de… pic.twitter.com/U9YQbSmuIv

— Defence Turk (@Defence_Turk) December 15, 2024

The new TF-2000 destroyer is set to become a key asset in Türkiye's naval capabilities. It will be equipped with the advanced 96-cell vertical launch system (MIDLAS), capable of deploying a range of missiles including the HİSAR-D RF for medium-range air defence, Siper Blok-1 and Siper Blok ID for long-range air defence, as well as the GEZGİN cruise missiles and ATMACA anti-ship missiles. 

The TF-2000 is designed to protect operational groups from airborne threats up to 100 kilometres, counter sea targets at distances over 250 kilometres, and engage underwater targets beyond 50 kilometres.

In addition to the destroyer, the national aircraft carrier Trakya is set to take shape, with an overall length of 285 meters, a width of 72 meters, and a displacement of 60,000 tons. The vessel will be capable of reaching speeds up to 25 knots and a range of 10,000 nautical miles without refuelling.

The carrier will feature three flight runways — two for takeoff and one for landing—and will accommodate up to 50 aircraft, including the naval version of the Hurjet light attack aircraft by TÜSAŞ, the ANKA-III and KIZILELMA jet drones, and Bayraktar TB3 turboprop UAVs.

The Trakya will also be equipped with a 32-cell MIDLAS VLS system and 35mm Gökdeniz naval guns. This will significantly enhance Türkiye's naval defence and air superiority capabilities. Both projects are a testament to Türkiye's growing ambitions in defence technology and its desire to strengthen its military infrastructure.

By Khagan Isayev