Türkiye expands naval capabilities with new submarine inductions and Aksaz Shipyard inauguration.

According to information published by the Turkish MoD on August 24, 2024, the Aksaz Shipyard Command inauguration and naval platforms handover ceremony was conducted in Aksaz, with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan attending the event.
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Commissioning ceremony of the submarine Piri Reis. (Picture source: Turkish MoD)

During the ceremony, several new assets and facilities were commissioned, reflecting a significant boost to Turkey's maritime defense capabilities.

The TCG Pirireis submarine was officially inducted into service, marking a new chapter for the country's submarine fleet. Concurrently, the submarine Hizirreis began its flag-raising and navigation trials, signaling its preparedness for operational deployment. Enhancing the logistical support capabilities of the navy, the YAKIT 2-3-4 fuel supply ships were also put into service.

The goal, according to Erdoğan, is to have all planned submarines operational by 2029. He also discussed the broader vision of building a self-sufficient defense industry capable of designing and constructing advanced military assets, including submarines and other critical naval platforms.

About the submarine

The TCG Piri Reis, designated as S-330, is a Type-214TN submarine featuring Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, which allows it to operate more quietly and stay submerged longer compared to traditional diesel-electric submarines.

The Reis-class submarines are built with advanced fuel cell technology and high-capacity batteries, enabling extended-duration operations without needing to surface frequently for air.

This class of submarines, built in collaboration with ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems at Turkey’s Golcuk Naval Shipyard, measures 68.35 meters in length, has a diameter of 6.3 meters, and displaces 1,850 tons. It is designed to accommodate a crew of 40.

These submarines are equipped with a variety of weapons systems, including the indigenous Akya heavyweight torpedo and Atmaca anti-ship missile. The submarines will also carry the Gezgin cruise missile, which is currently under development.