Türkiye’s MUGEM Aircraft Carrier Set for 2027–2028 Launch
A New Era for the Turkish Navy
Türkiye aims to launch its National Aircraft Carrier MUGEM around 2027–2028, marking a decisive leap in naval modernisation. Rear Admiral Erdinç Yetkin, Commander of the Istanbul Naval Shipyard, revealed construction milestones in an interview with CNN Türk. According to him, the ship began construction in early 2025 and could be delivered before 2030. The National Aircraft Carrier MUGEM represents Türkiye’s growing ambition to become a blue-water navy.
Progress in Construction and Partnerships
Rear Admiral Yetkin revealed that partner shipyards are jointly manufacturing the mega blocks for the National Aircraft Carrier MUGEM. This collaborative approach accelerates the schedule, ensuring that the ski-jump ramp will be ready within months. The ramp will allow unmanned combat aerial vehicles such as Baykar’s Kızılelma and TB3, alongside TAI’s Anka series, to conduct flight tests. By outsourcing portions of the hull to various facilities, Türkiye reduces bottlenecks while building valuable expertise across its shipbuilding industry.
From Anadolu to MUGEM: A Significant Upgrade
The National Aircraft Carrier MUGEM dwarfs Türkiye’s existing amphibious assault ship TCG Anadolu. While Anadolu measures 230 metres and displaces 27,000 tonnes, MUGEM will stretch 285 metres and weigh 60,000 tonnes. This scale allows the ship to host a wide range of naval aircraft. According to Yetkin, the new platform will allow systems like Baykar’s TB2, TB3, and Kızılelma, as well as TAI’s Hurjet and Anka-III, to take off and land.
Design Innovation and Efficiency
Unveiled publicly in February 2024 during President Erdoğan’s visit to Istanbul Naval Shipyard, the National Aircraft Carrier MUGEM has been developed with cutting-edge design features. The optimised hull form was created using multi-dimensional digital modelling tools to maximise seakeeping and manoeuvrability. Simulation testing demonstrated a 1.5% reduction in fuel consumption and improved underwater noise management, enhancing stealth and efficiency. These refinements make the ship adaptable to multiple maritime environments, from the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean.
Flight Deck and Runway Arrangement
The flight deck of the National Aircraft Carrier MUGEM will feature three runways—two dedicated to take-off and one to landings. At the initial stage, it will not feature catapult launch systems, relying instead on a modular ski-jump ramp. However, Turkish engineers are developing an indigenous catapult system for later integration, which will enhance flexibility and facilitate the operation of heavier aircraft. This forward-looking design ensures that the carrier remains adaptable to evolving technologies in naval aviation.
Air Wing Capacity and Composition
The National Aircraft Carrier MUGEM will host up to 50 aircraft, divided between 20 on deck and 30 in the hangar. This capacity highlights Türkiye’s emphasis on both manual and unmanned platforms. Planned assets include:
- Hurjet naval variant (light attack aircraft)
- Bayraktar Kızılelma (unmanned jet fighter)
- Bayraktar TB3 UCAV
- TAI Anka-III (stealthy unmanned jet)
Turkish defence officials have signalled that aircraft numbers may expand as integration continues, with Baykar and TAI expected to play central roles in fleet development.
Weapons and Defensive Systems
The National Aircraft Carrier MUGEM will incorporate robust self-defence measures. These include a 32-cell MIDLAS Vertical Launch System (VLS) capable of firing surface-to-air missiles, four Gökdeniz Close-in Weapon Systems (CIWS) for missile interception, and six Aselsan STOP 25mm Remote Weapon Systems for close-range asymmetric threats. Such a layered defensive suite ensures that the vessel remains resilient in contested environments.
Technical Specifications
The technical profile of the National Aircraft Carrier MUGEM reflects its status as a formidable strategic asset:
- Length: 285 metres
- Beam: 72 metres
- Draft: 10.1 metres
- Displacement: 60,000 tons
- Max Speed: 25+ knots
- Cruising Speed: 14 knots
- Range: 10,000 nautical miles at cruising speed
- Propulsion: COGAG system with four LM2500 gas turbines (23 MW each)
- Personnel Capacity: Minimum of 800 crew
- Aircraft Capacity: 50 manned/unmanned aircraft
- Combat Management System: ADVENT CMS
These specifications position MUGEM among the most advanced non-nuclear carriers under construction worldwide.
Strategic Impact of MUGEM
The entry of the National Aircraft Carrier MUGEM into service will profoundly reshape Türkiye’s naval posture. It will provide Ankara the ability to project power far beyond its immediate waters and strengthen its role within NATO and regional coalitions. By using homegrown aerospace systems like Kızılelma and Anka-III, MUGEM will lead the way in having a carrier air wing mainly made up of drones.
Conclusion
The National Aircraft Carrier MUGEM represents more than just a shipbuilding project; it is the embodiment of Türkiye’s maritime ambitions. By 2027–2028, when the carrier is expected to be launched, Ankara will have demonstrated its capacity to design, construct, and operate a vessel of strategic significance. MUGEM, with its blend of manual and unmanned systems, modern defensive suites, and future-ready propulsion, will symbolise Turkey’s transformation into a global naval power.
References
- CNN Türk – Interview with Rear Admiral Erdinç Yetkin
- Naval News – IDEF 2025 Coverage
- ASFAT Official Defence Industry Website
- Turkish Presidency Defence Industry Communications
- Defense News Today
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