Türkiye develops indigenous submarine technologies with new oceanography devices.

According to a PR published by STM on September 11, 2024, the company is set to advance Türkiye’s maritime capabilities by producing critical oceanography devices domestically.
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Artist rendering of CTD Probe systems. (Picture source: STM)

The project, backed by the Ministry of Industry and Technology’s LEAP program, focuses on developing “CTD Probe” systems and expendable oceanographic devices entirely within Türkiye. These systems, crucial for measuring the physical properties of seawater, will enhance the operational capabilities of submarines and contribute to various maritime sectors.

CTD Probes measure conductivity, temperature, and pressure to calculate key data such as salinity, water density, and the speed of sound underwater. These measurements are essential for optimizing the performance of sonar systems, the primary sensory tools for submarines. In addition, expendable devices will collect temperature and sound speed data at different depths.

By producing these technologies domestically, Türkiye aims to minimize the risks associated with foreign restrictions or embargoes. The project’s success is expected to extend beyond military applications, supporting civil maritime operations and environmental research, including underwater mapping and resource exploration.

Turkish strategy

This transformation is part of a broader strategy to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers, enhance national security, and position Turkey as a competitive player in the global defense market. By 2022, the rate of domestic content in defense production rose to 80%, a significant jump from the 20% seen in 2000.

Key initiatives include the MILGEM project, aimed at building a fleet of indigenous warships like the Istanbul-class frigates. The TCG Istanbul, launched in 2021, is Turkey’s first nationally designed frigate, outfitted with homegrown systems such as the ATMACA anti-ship missile and Gökdeniz close-in weapon system. The success of these platforms has allowed Turkey to export warships to countries like Pakistan and Ukraine.

The shift toward indigenization has been driven by both strategic and economic factors. Strategically, Turkey seeks to bolster its autonomy in defense procurement, particularly after foreign sanctions, such as those imposed by the U.S. following Turkey’s acquisition of the Russian S-400 system.