Arabian Post Staff -Dubai
Türkiye has launched its inaugural New-Type Landing Craft Tank at the Anadolu Shipyard in Istanbul, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s naval capabilities. The vessel, designated YLCT C-159, is the first of eight planned ships under a project initiated in early 2024 by the Presidency of Defense Industries.
The contract for these advanced amphibious vessels was signed in April 2024, and just ten months later, the first ship has been successfully launched. The remaining seven ships are slated for completion within the next 27 months, with the second YLCT expected to launch within a week. This accelerated timeline underscores Türkiye’s commitment to enhancing its naval fleet with domestically produced assets.
Haluk Gorgun, head of Turkish Defence Industries, expressed pride in this milestone, stating that it brings Türkiye closer to its goal of a stronger and more deterrent navy in the “Blue Homeland.” The YLCTs are designed to transport various vehicles and personnel, playing a crucial role in combat missions, disaster response, humanitarian aid, and evacuation operations.
Over the past 23 years, Türkiye has significantly increased the domestic production rate of its naval platforms from 20% to 80%. This achievement positions the country among a select group capable of designing, building, and maintaining a comprehensive range of military ships, including amphibious assault ships, support vessels, combat ships, and submarines.
The Anadolu Shipyard, located in Tuzla, Istanbul, has been instrumental in this progress. Founded in the early 1950s, the shipyard has evolved from building sailing yachts to advanced military vessels. It boasts facilities capable of constructing ships up to 17,000 DWT, with two shipways measuring 200 meters and 140 meters, respectively. The shipyard can simultaneously build up to six vessels, reflecting its substantial capacity and expertise.
In addition to bolstering its own naval forces, Türkiye has made strides in exporting domestically produced warships. The country has delivered vessels to nations such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Qatar. Notably, in December 2024, Turkish defense company STM announced a contract to build two naval logistics ships for Portugal, marking Türkiye’s first military shipbuilding export to a NATO and EU member state.
The YLCT class ships are poised to enhance Türkiye’s operational capabilities significantly. These vessels are designed for high-speed operations, capable of transporting tanks, troops, and supplies during various missions. Their versatility makes them invaluable assets for both military logistics and humanitarian efforts, including natural disaster response and evacuation operations.
The launch of YLCT C-159 signifies a broader national effort to develop a self-sufficient defense industry. Türkiye’s focus on domestic production aims to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and strengthen its strategic autonomy. This initiative aligns with the country’s long-term vision of becoming a formidable maritime power, capable of projecting influence and ensuring security within its regional waters and beyond.
As the remaining YLCT vessels are completed and integrated into the fleet, Türkiye’s naval forces will experience a substantial boost in their operational readiness and versatility. The successful execution of this project reflects the nation’s growing industrial capabilities and its determination to assert itself as a key player in the global defense sector.
The Anadolu Shipyard’s role in this endeavor cannot be overstated. With a history dating back to the 1950s, the shipyard has transformed into a hub of advanced naval construction. Its facilities, including two expansive shipways and multiple quays, enable the construction and maintenance of a wide array of vessels. The shipyard’s capacity to build up to six ships simultaneously highlights its strategic importance to Türkiye’s defense infrastructure.
Looking ahead, Türkiye’s investment in domestic naval production is expected to yield significant economic and strategic benefits. The development of indigenous shipbuilding capabilities not only enhances national security but also opens avenues for international collaboration and export opportunities. As Türkiye continues to modernize its fleet, it sets a precedent for self-reliance and innovation in defense manufacturing.
The launch of the first YLCT ship represents a pivotal moment in Türkiye’s maritime history. It exemplifies the nation’s commitment to strengthening its naval forces through domestic ingenuity and production. As subsequent vessels join the fleet, Türkiye is poised to enhance its maritime security and project power more effectively on the global stage.
