ASFAT’s Deputy General Manager Serdar Ümit Tezeren shared key updates on Turkey’s flagship naval defense projects during the 12th Maritime Systems Seminar, held on May 26–27 at the Istanbul Naval Museum.
His remarks covered ASFAT’s achievements, ongoing programs, and future strategies, with a focus on the TF-2000 Air Defense Destroyer, the National Submarine (MİLDEN), the Offshore Patrol Vessel (ADKG), and the Pakistan Navy MİLGEM project.
TF-2000 and MİLDEN Projects: Strategic Developments
Tezeren underlined ASFAT’s central role in the TF-2000 Air Defense Destroyer project. He stated that Phase 1 activities—such as model testing, classification, 3D production modeling, degaussing, and integration of propulsion and combat systems—are in progress. Following the May 13 Defense Industry Executive Committee decision, ASFAT has also been entrusted with executing Phase 2.
Regarding the MİLDEN (National Submarine) project, Tezeren highlighted deepening cooperation with the General Directorate of Shipyards and the Committee’s newly endorsed directives. He also emphasized efforts to enhance the national design office infrastructure under the MUGEM project.
Offshore Patrol Vessel (ADKG) Program: On Schedule
Tezeren described the Open Sea Patrol Vessel (ADKG) initiative as one of ASFAT’s key programs, aligned with the Turkish Naval Forces’ operational needs. The first ship, TCG Akhisar, is currently undergoing sea acceptance tests, while the second, TCG Koçhisar, is in port acceptance testing. If timelines hold, Akhisar will be delivered in August 2025 and Koçhisar by March 2026.
ASFAT’s support extends beyond the military. Tezeren noted the successful delivery of 19 security boats to the Gendarmerie General Command, General Directorate of Security, and the General Directorate of Maritime Affairs. He also reported progress on the construction of marine cleanup and oil recovery vessels, along with service boats for BOTAŞ.
Infrastructure Modernization: Floating Docks and Shipyard Enhancements
To boost Turkey’s naval infrastructure, ASFAT is spearheading floating dock projects. Tezeren announced that designs for a 10,000-ton dock in Izmir and a 3,000-ton submarine dock in Gölcük are complete, with construction already underway. Two additional 10,000-ton docks are also being built to replace existing infrastructure.
ASFAT is also engaged in maintenance work at Aksaz Shipyard and in modernizing the medical capabilities of Sancaktar-class tank landing ships.
PN MİLGEM: International Defense Cooperation with Pakistan
ASFAT’s international reputation has grown significantly through the PN MİLGEM project, one of Turkey’s largest defense export deals, signed in 2018 and launched in 2019. The agreement includes four corvettes for the Pakistan Navy—two being built at Istanbul Shipyard, and two at Karachi Shipyard.
The first ship, PNS Babur, was delivered in 2024. The second, PNS Khaibar, is undergoing sea trials, with delivery expected in August 2025. The remaining two vessels are scheduled for handover by 2026.
