Türkiye Launches TCG Akdeniz Under the MİLGEM Program

Türkiye launched TCG Akdeniz, an İstanbul-class (İstif-class) frigate, marking a further step in the country’s domestically driven naval shipbuilding program.

The launching ceremony took place at Istanbul Shipyard Command. TCG Akdeniz is being built as part of the MİLGEM (National Ship) initiative, which aims to design and construct surface combatants with a high level of indigenous content.

The İstanbul-class frigate represents an enlarged and more capable evolution of the Ada-class corvettes previously developed under MİLGEM. Compared with earlier platforms, the class features greater displacement, extended endurance, and enhanced command-and-control capacity, allowing for sustained operations beyond coastal waters.

Designed as a multi-role surface combatant, the İstanbul-class is intended to support a broad range of naval missions, including surface warfare, air defense, and maritime security operations. The class is also configured to operate helicopters and integrate advanced combat management and sensor systems developed by Türkiye’s defense industry.

Following its launch, TCG Akdeniz will proceed to the outfitting phase, to be followed by harbor and sea trials before entering active service with the Turkish Navy.