PT PAL announced the launch of the first Merah Putih-class frigate, KRI Balaputradewa (322), with the MİDLAS VLS mockup visible from shared photos.
Indonesian shipbuilder PT PAL announced the launch of the first Merah Putih-class frigate based on the Arrowhead 140 design. Images shared by PT PAL show that the fitting of ROKETSAN’s MİDLAS VLS is being validated through a 1:1 scale mockup.
MİDLAS was listed among the equipment for Merah Putih under the FFBNW category with 64 cells to launch air defence and anti-ship missiles.
When the functional MİDLAS package onboard TCG İstanbul (F-515) frigate is inspected closely, it can be seen that what is seen on the Merah Putih frigate lacks some of the components, like hinges for launcher caps.
While it is a mockup, it still gives an idea of what the high-capacity configuration will look like.
The validation of VLS fitting is also important for Turkiye’s TF-2000 / Tepe-class AAW destroyers, as they will also use a 64-cell MİDLAS emplacement at midsection, like Merah Putih-class, alongside the bow emplacement with 32 cells.
MİDLAS has two options for lengths as tactical and strike. Tactical length MİDLAS can fire HİSAR-D, ATMACA, and SİPER Block 1-D missiles. Strike-length MİDLAS will allow the firing of SİPER Block 2-D long-range air defence missile and GEZGİN cruise missile.
Previously, Padepokan Keris shared a photo of the ship with the mounting points prepared for ASELSAN’s CENK 350-N X-band fixed array AESA radars. Alongside CENK 350-N, the S-band CENK 400-N AESA radar in rotating configuration will be used for searching. CENK 400-N is currently in use with the TCG İstanbul frigate of the Turkish Navy.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor: Özgür Ekşi
