Türkiye launches eighth national frigate TCG Içel under MILGEM project
Locally built warship features advanced defense systems and 70% domestic content
ISTANBUL, Türkiye (MNTV) — Türkiye has launched its eighth indigenously produced warship, the TCG Içel (F-518), marking another milestone in the country’s MILGEM national shipbuilding program.
The frigate, reported Daily Sabah, was launched into the sea on September 1 during a ceremony at the Sefine Shipyard in Yalova’s Altınova district.
The TCG Içel project was initiated through an April 2023 agreement between the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB), the shipyard consortium TAIS, and defense contractor STM to produce seven Istif-class frigates. Two of the vessels are currently under construction at Sefine Shipyard.
Designed for multirole operations, the frigate is equipped for surveillance, reconnaissance, patrol, anti-submarine warfare, air defense, and search-and-rescue missions in challenging maritime conditions.
It measures 113 meters in length, displaces 3,200 tons, and can reach speeds exceeding 29 knots with a cruising range of 5,700 nautical miles at 14 knots.
The ship can remain at sea for two weeks and is fitted with a flight deck capable of hosting 10-ton helicopters or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The TCG Içel incorporates a high level of local content, with over 70 percent of its systems domestically produced. Its weaponry includes the MKE 76mm naval gun, Gökdeniz close-in air defense system, Midlas vertical launch system, and Atmaca anti-ship missiles.
It also integrates advanced radars, electronic warfare tools, electro-optical tracking systems, and the ADVENT combat management network.
According to officials, more than 200 Turkish suppliers contributed to the construction of the vessel, underscoring the country’s growing self-reliance in naval defense technologies.
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