MKE’s National Naval Gun “Denizhan” Project 127 mm/54 naval gun's barrel completed its first test firing aboard TCG FATİH, marking a key step for the TF-2000 destroyer.
Türkiye has carried out a significant milestone in its long-range naval fire-support and air-defence architecture with the first successful test firing of the 127 mm/54 calibre naval gun barrel. The MKE developed the system under the National Naval Gun “Denizhan” Project for its first live-fire tests on the Yavuz-class (MEKO 200TN) frigate TCG FATİH (F-242).
The process of integrating the Denizhan barrel into TCG FATİH's weapon mount required complete mechanical and electronic system synchronization. The first test firing confirmed the barrel's structural integrity and firing behavior and its basic compatibility with shipboard sensors and fire control systems. The system-level data collected during this trial will serve as guidance for upcoming design improvement and qualification phases.
The TF-2000 destroyer project represents Türkiye's most advanced surface-combatant program to date because it features a 127 mm main battery alongside advanced radars and high-capacity vertical-launch systems for air-defence protection.
MKE’s work on naval gun systems has accelerated in recent years, including the 76 mm national naval gun that has already reached serial production and deployment. The 127 mm calibre, on the other hand, is much harder to develop because of its barrel length, recoil forces, thermal behaviour, and power management needs.
Author: Özgür Ekşi
