The conceptual design phase of the Turkish aircraft carrier, now named MUGEM, has been completed. TRT Haber has reported that the Turkish Navy's DPO (Design Project Office) is moving towards the detailed design phase.
MUGEM is being designed as a 285 m-long aircraft carrier with STOBAR operation. Naval versions of HÜRJET LCA, KIZILELMA unmanned fighter, ANKA-3 stealth UCAV, and Bayraktar TB3 UCAV among helicopters will be deployed on the ship.
A capacity for 50 aircraft is planned, with Bayraktar TB3 being minimal during carriage thanks to its folding wings and HÜRJET's small size compared to a fighter jet. The combination of manned and unmanned aircraft will give MUGEM an edge when monitoring and protecting zones of interest, among the carrier's main objectives.
For example, Bayraktar TB3's long endurance and future sensor options can help when patrolling or surveying remote locations. Additionally, the unmanned KIZILELMA and ANKA-3 can be sent before HÜRJET into the risky operation areas so as not to endanger the pilots.
While the design is built on the STOBAR principle, a provision is expected to be left for installing a catapult if the technology becomes available. The catapult can allow for larger platforms like a naval variant of the KAAN fighter jet, which has been teased with the first images. MUGEM's propulsion system will consist of four LM2500 gas turbines and two propellers.
The conventionally powered carrier will reach a range of 10000 nm at 14 knots.
