Commander of İstanbul Naval Shipyard, Recep Erdinç Yetkin, stated that the first Tepe-class (TF-2000) AAW destroyer will be launched by the end of 2027.
Speaking to Haber Global news channel, Rear Admiral (Upper Half) Recep Erdinç Yetkin, in command of the İstanbul Naval Shipyard, stated that the lead ship of Tepe-class destroyers will meet the sea by the end of 2027.
On the other hand, ASFAT’s Naval Programmes Director Kerem Orcun Yükseldağ pointed out March 2026 for the laying of the first block for the lead ship.
Mock Deck for MUGEM Completed
The Tepe-class was not the only subject of the interview. Commander of the İstanbul Naval Shipyard added that the MUGEM aircraft carrier’s mock deck for flight testing of the intended platforms is complete and set to be stationed at an airport soon.
MUGEM, as a STOBAR carrier, is planned to operate Bayraktar TB3 STOL UCAV and naval derivatives of KIZILELMA unmanned fighter, and ANKA-III UCAV. As a manned combat aircraft, a “Naval HÜRJET” is known to be in works with the differences compared to the baseline version, which is a ground-based trainer with LCA provisions, remaining unclear.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor: Özgür Ekşi
