Pakistan Navy | News & Discussions.

[Rocky rock]

Is this Pakistan replenishment tanker ? it has Anti Ship Missiles too ?

Lolx no the pic creates bit of confusion these are 2 ships on right it's PN replenishment tanker and on left it's Type 21 frigate which is having missiles.

 

[fatman17]

View attachment 394314

Fore and aft are the position of the CWIS

 

[Penguin]

In the picture you can only see 1x phalanx where is the second one ?

There is only a single Phalanx CIWS on each AOR.

Firing pedestal should have installed little higher so the gunner shouldn't have
To bend down to fire the gun

Depends. If firing at an air target, you crouch down and aim up. When firing at a sea target, you need to stand tall and aim down. Best would be a remote control mount.

Fore and aft are the position of the CWIS

There is only a single Phalanx on each AOR. Moawin has 2 single 40mm cannon in addition, while Nasr has 4 twin 37mm cannon.

 

[fatman17]

May 2017 issue of AFM has feature on.....

EXERCISE REPORT: AMAN 2017
The Pakistan Navy hosts the multi-national naval exercise Aman 2017 in the North Arabian Ocean.

 

[fatman17]

Milgem Program

The official said the deal with Pakistan, valued at about $1 billion, will involve four Ada-class ships weighing 2-2.5 tons.

“We cannot offer a vessel with Sea Sparrow missile capabilities to a non-NATO country,” the official said. “Hence the suitability of the Ada-class vessels for Pakistan.”

Turkey substantially saved in its I-class program by re-using the Ada-class platforms. Naval experts also say hull commonality will lead to maintenance savings in infrastructure.

 

[ziaulislam]

Milgem Program

The official said the deal with Pakistan, valued at about $1 billion, will involve four Ada-class ships weighing 2-2.5 tons.

“We cannot offer a vessel with Sea Sparrow missile capabilities to a non-NATO country,” the official said. “Hence the suitability of the Ada-class vessels for Pakistan.”

Turkey substantially saved in its I-class program by re-using the Ada-class platforms. Naval experts also say hull commonality will lead to maintenance savings in infrastructure.

any how we had the south african option, how come Pakistan operates spada system than?
its probably cost saving option.
some how every branch of armed forces think that PAF is going to cover them but they forget PAF is the most ill equipped among the three as compare to its neighbour. well it atleast the RAM is better than the fm90 aboard f-22

 

[ejaz007]

Sources: Turkey to ink 'largest ever export deal for local industry'
By: Burak Ege Bekdil, May 10, 2017 (Photo Credit: U.S. Navy/MC2 John Herman)

ANKARA— The Turkish government is about to finalize its efforts to ink two major naval export deals totaling between $1.5 billion and $2 billion, official sources said on condition of strict anonymity.

“This will be the largest ever export deal for Turkey’s local industry,” one source said.

An official from Turkey’s procurement office, the Undersecretariat for Defense Industries (SSM in its Turkish acronym) did not comment, saying that it would be up to the government when and how to announce such big deals. But a senior shipyard executive confirmed “matured” talks with both countries. “The government will announce it when it thinks is the good time to announce.”

The official source said one of the deals, with Saudi Arabia, would involve the sale of at least two I-class (Istanbul-class) MILGEM corvettes or frigates. Industry sources said each vessel, coming in at 3-3.5 tons, would cost between $300 million and $500 million.

Turkish Defense Minister Fikri Isik said recently that a big export deal with Saudi Arabia would soon be finalized, but he and other officials kept the content of the deal top secret. A Defense News report on May 3 speculated that the deal may involve naval platforms.



At the beginning of the year Turkey began constructing the first I-class frigate for the Turkish Navy. The TCG Istanbul will be the country’s fifth locally designed warship after four Ada-class anti-submarine corvettes under the MILGEM program. Turkish officials said the MILGEM program was 65 percent Turkish.

The I-class frigate now going to Saudi Arabia is variant of the Ada-class corvette with a longer hull (by 14 meters) and heavier displacement (3,000-tons vs. 2,400-tons). It has similar anti-submarine warfare capabilities but also features a vertical launch system for a medium-range surface-to-air missile. It has 16 additional sub-sonic anti-ship missiles compared to eight on the Ada-class vessel.

The I-class frigate will be configured with a Mk.41 vertical launch system with the RIM-162 Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile. Both classes of vessels will be armed with one 76 mm main gun, two 12.7 mm guns, Mk. 46 lightweight anti-submarine warfare torpedoes, and RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile. It will also feature a hangar and flight deck for a naval utility helicopter.

The official said the deal with Pakistan, valued at about $1 billion, will involve four Ada-class ships weighing 2-2.5 tons.

“We cannot offer a vessel with Sea Sparrow missile capabilities to a non-NATO country,” the official said. “Hence the suitability of the Ada-class vessels for Pakistan.”

Turkey substantially saved in its I-class program by re-using the Ada-class platforms. Naval experts also say hull commonality will lead to maintenance savings in infrastructure.

Turkey’s naval industry has flourished in recent years. The production of the TCG Anadolu, Turkey’s first amphibious assault ship, kicked off recently.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that the Landing Platform Dock LPD program would hopefully be the first step toward producing a “most elite” aircraft carrier. Then he upped Turkey’s naval ambitions that the country would also need a nuclear vessel.

In 2013, Turkey announced that it had selected the local shipyard Sedef for its LPD program. In the LPD contract, Sedef is partnered with Spain's Navantia.

The planned amphibious assault vessel will carry a battalion-sized unit of 1,200 troops and personnel, eight utility helicopters and three unmanned aerial vehicles; it also will transport 150 vehicles, including battle tanks.It may have an aircraft platform for vertical takeoff and landing. A ski jump at the front of the deck can be used to launch fighter aircraft. Industry sources estimate the cost of the contract at over $1 billion.

Under the original production plan the 231-meter-long vessel was to be completed within five and a half years. But Erdogan urged Sedef to deliver the vessel within four.

http://www.defensenews.com/articles...k-largest-ever-export-deal-for-local-industry

 

[fatman17]

MOU signed for warships and training aircraft with Turkey.

ISTANBUL: Turkey and Pakistan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the sale of four Turkish-made corvette warships and 52 Pakistan-made training planes for Ankara’s armed forces, Turkey’s defence industry under-secretariat said on Wednesday.

Karachi Shipyard will buy four corvettes made under Turkey’s Milgem warship programme aimed at designing and building locally a fleet of multipurpose corvettes and frigates that will replace older ships.

The Turkish defence under secretariat said the final deal was expected to be signed on June 30. The statement gave no financial details.

Turkey will buy 52 Super Mushshak training planes from Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, Kamra, to replace the T-41 and SF-260 planes currently in use, a statement by Ankara’s defence under secretariat said.

This would be the first time a Nato country would use Super Mushshak planes, the statement added.

Two warships built under the Milgem project so far, named TCG Heybeliada and TCG Buyukada, were delivered to the Turkish Navy in 2011 and 2013. Construction is going on for TCG Burgazada and TCG Kinaliada, which are expected to start duty in 2018 and 2020, respectively.

Published in Dawn, May 11th, 2017

 

[fatman17]

Sea Platforms

IDEF 2017: Pakistan's KSEW signs LoI with Turkey's STM for local construction of Ada-class corvettes

Lale Sariibrahimoglu, Istanbul - IHS Jane's Defence Weekly

11 May 2017

Pakistan's Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works Limited (KSEW) has signed a letter of intent (LOI) with Turkish defence engineering firm Savunma Teknolojileri Mühendislik ve Ticaret (STM) for the local construction of four Ada (MILGEM)-class corvettes for the Pakistan Navy.

The LOI was signed on 10 May at the 2017 IDEF defence exhibition in Istanbul in a ceremony presided over by Turkish defence minister Fikri Isik and Pakistan's minister for defence production, Tanvir Hussain, according to a statement issued by the Turkish Defence Industries Undersecretariat (SSM).

The final agreement for KSEW's production of the Ada-class corvettes, which is set to constitute one of the biggest-ever Turkish defence industry export deals, is expected to be signed in Pakistan on 30 June, according to the SSM statement.

 

[Zarvan]

Chief of Naval Staff calls on Commandant Marine Corps and commandant Western Fleet Command of Indonesia

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah is on an official visit to Indonesia. During the visit, the Naval Chief called on Commandant Marine Corps, Maj Gen Bambang Suwantono, and Commandant Western Fleet Command, Rear Admiral Aan Kumia of Indonesia.

Upon his arrival at Marines Base and Western Fleet Command Headquarters, Naval Chief was presented Guard of Honour.

During the meeting with Commandant Marine Corps, Maj Gen Bambang Suwantono, diverse matters of professional interest ranging from Maritime Security and Stability, Coalition Maritime Campaign Plan (CMCP), Counter Piracy Operations, drug trafficking and various avenues to enhance interoperability between Pakistan and Indonesian Navy were dilated upon. Naval Chief also highlighted Pakistan’s commitment and performance in fight against terrorism in general and Pakistan Navy’s efforts for maintaining regional peace and security in particular. Gen Bambang Suwantono acknowledged strong foundations and historical ties between Pakistan and Indonesia and lauded PN efforts and focused commitments in support of collaborative maritime security in the region and extending cooperation in diverse fields to Indonesian Navy.

Later, Chief of the Naval Staff called on Commandant Fleet Command, Rear Admiral Aan Kumia. Upon his arrival at Western Fleet Command Headquarters at Jakarta, Indonesia, he was warmly welcomed by Commandant Fleet Command and was also given detailed briefings regarding western Fleet Command of Indonesian Navy.

During the meeting, professional matters of mutual interest came under discussion. The Naval Chief Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah appreciated the professionalism and commitment of Indonesian Navy officers and men. The commandant Western Fleet Commmand highly lauded the role and contributions of Pakistan Navy in spearheading various initiatives for maintaining peace and stability in the region.

Sources: Turkey to ink 'largest ever export deal for local industry'
By: Burak Ege Bekdil, May 10, 2017 (Photo Credit: U.S. Navy/MC2 John Herman)

ANKARA— The Turkish government is about to finalize its efforts to ink two major naval export deals totaling between $1.5 billion and $2 billion, official sources said on condition of strict anonymity.

“This will be the largest ever export deal for Turkey’s local industry,” one source said.

An official from Turkey’s procurement office, the Undersecretariat for Defense Industries (SSM in its Turkish acronym) did not comment, saying that it would be up to the government when and how to announce such big deals. But a senior shipyard executive confirmed “matured” talks with both countries. “The government will announce it when it thinks is the good time to announce.”

The official source said one of the deals, with Saudi Arabia, would involve the sale of at least two I-class (Istanbul-class) MILGEM corvettes or frigates. Industry sources said each vessel, coming in at 3-3.5 tons, would cost between $300 million and $500 million.

Turkish Defense Minister Fikri Isik said recently that a big export deal with Saudi Arabia would soon be finalized, but he and other officials kept the content of the deal top secret. A Defense News report on May 3 speculated that the deal may involve naval platforms.



At the beginning of the year Turkey began constructing the first I-class frigate for the Turkish Navy. The TCG Istanbul will be the country’s fifth locally designed warship after four Ada-class anti-submarine corvettes under the MILGEM program. Turkish officials said the MILGEM program was 65 percent Turkish.

The I-class frigate now going to Saudi Arabia is variant of the Ada-class corvette with a longer hull (by 14 meters) and heavier displacement (3,000-tons vs. 2,400-tons). It has similar anti-submarine warfare capabilities but also features a vertical launch system for a medium-range surface-to-air missile. It has 16 additional sub-sonic anti-ship missiles compared to eight on the Ada-class vessel.

The I-class frigate will be configured with a Mk.41 vertical launch system with the RIM-162 Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile. Both classes of vessels will be armed with one 76 mm main gun, two 12.7 mm guns, Mk. 46 lightweight anti-submarine warfare torpedoes, and RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile. It will also feature a hangar and flight deck for a naval utility helicopter.

The official said the deal with Pakistan, valued at about $1 billion, will involve four Ada-class ships weighing 2-2.5 tons.

“We cannot offer a vessel with Sea Sparrow missile capabilities to a non-NATO country,” the official said. “Hence the suitability of the Ada-class vessels for Pakistan.”

Turkey substantially saved in its I-class program by re-using the Ada-class platforms. Naval experts also say hull commonality will lead to maintenance savings in infrastructure.

Turkey’s naval industry has flourished in recent years. The production of the TCG Anadolu, Turkey’s first amphibious assault ship, kicked off recently.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that the Landing Platform Dock LPD program would hopefully be the first step toward producing a “most elite” aircraft carrier. Then he upped Turkey’s naval ambitions that the country would also need a nuclear vessel.

In 2013, Turkey announced that it had selected the local shipyard Sedef for its LPD program. In the LPD contract, Sedef is partnered with Spain's Navantia.

The planned amphibious assault vessel will carry a battalion-sized unit of 1,200 troops and personnel, eight utility helicopters and three unmanned aerial vehicles; it also will transport 150 vehicles, including battle tanks.It may have an aircraft platform for vertical takeoff and landing. A ski jump at the front of the deck can be used to launch fighter aircraft. Industry sources estimate the cost of the contract at over $1 billion.

Under the original production plan the 231-meter-long vessel was to be completed within five and a half years. But Erdogan urged Sedef to deliver the vessel within four.

http://www.defensenews.com/articles...k-largest-ever-export-deal-for-local-industry

Somebody please tell this guy that even Saudi Arabia is not a NATO country so why they are selling them Istanbul Class Frigates ?

 

[ziaulislam]

Chief of Naval Staff calls on Commandant Marine Corps and commandant Western Fleet Command of Indonesia

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah is on an official visit to Indonesia. During the visit, the Naval Chief called on Commandant Marine Corps, Maj Gen Bambang Suwantono, and Commandant Western Fleet Command, Rear Admiral Aan Kumia of Indonesia.

Upon his arrival at Marines Base and Western Fleet Command Headquarters, Naval Chief was presented Guard of Honour.

During the meeting with Commandant Marine Corps, Maj Gen Bambang Suwantono, diverse matters of professional interest ranging from Maritime Security and Stability, Coalition Maritime Campaign Plan (CMCP), Counter Piracy Operations, drug trafficking and various avenues to enhance interoperability between Pakistan and Indonesian Navy were dilated upon. Naval Chief also highlighted Pakistan’s commitment and performance in fight against terrorism in general and Pakistan Navy’s efforts for maintaining regional peace and security in particular. Gen Bambang Suwantono acknowledged strong foundations and historical ties between Pakistan and Indonesia and lauded PN efforts and focused commitments in support of collaborative maritime security in the region and extending cooperation in diverse fields to Indonesian Navy.

Later, Chief of the Naval Staff called on Commandant Fleet Command, Rear Admiral Aan Kumia. Upon his arrival at Western Fleet Command Headquarters at Jakarta, Indonesia, he was warmly welcomed by Commandant Fleet Command and was also given detailed briefings regarding western Fleet Command of Indonesian Navy.

During the meeting, professional matters of mutual interest came under discussion. The Naval Chief Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah appreciated the professionalism and commitment of Indonesian Navy officers and men. The commandant Western Fleet Commmand highly lauded the role and contributions of Pakistan Navy in spearheading various initiatives for maintaining peace and stability in the region.

Somebody please tell this guy that even Saudi Arabia is not a NATO country so why they are selling them Istanbul Class Frigates ?

1. money and they get everything what usa has
2.india effect, believe it or not but of late india has been sucessful in blocking as much as sales it can

 

[Zarvan]

1. money and they get everything what usa has
2.india effect, believe it or not but of late india has been sucessful in blocking as much as sales it can

There is no problem of India from Turkey. Pakistan is getting these on its own will it has nothing to do with Turkey. Our Police Makers lack vision

 

[ziaulislam]

There is no problem of India from Turkey. Pakistan is getting these on its own will it has nothing to do with Turkey. Our Police Makers lack vision

here i think the issue will be money. PN was probably not able to convince the govt for another 400 million dollars for VLS for the 4 ships( to be honest this will double the amount govt was suppose to provide if we consider 400M $ were offered by turkey)

 

[fatman17]

Ada class corvettes of the Turkish Navy

Written by D-Mitch


TCG Heybeliada, lead ship of the Ada class corvettes
The MILGEM project, from the Turkish words Milli Gemi (National Ship), is a Turkish national warship program with the aim to design and build locally a fleet of hi-tech stealth multipurpose corvettes and frigates that will replace older ships which are currently in service. Through this ambitious program, Turkey seeks to improve national military shipbuilding capacity and skills and ultimately to achieve independence from foreign weapon producers, designers and manufacturers. More than 50 local companies, including the largest Turkish defense firms such as Aselsan, Havelsan and RMK Marine, play a significant role in the MILGEM project, gaining invaluable experience in warship design and construction. The MILGEM Project Office of the Istanbul Naval Shipyard Command executes and coordinates the design, development and construction works of the MILGEM project since March 12, 2004. The programme initially included the construction of 12 ships in two batches (blocks, due to important differences among the batches). The first batch would have included eight (8) multipurpose corvettes the so-called MILGEM Block I (Ada; island in Turkish) class while the last four (4) would be of the TF-100 frigates equipped with vertical-launching system (VLS) for surface-to-air (SAM) missiles. This plan changed recently as the first batch will include only four corvettes of the Ada class, while all the rest ships will be designated as MILGEM Block II.


An overhead view of TCG Heybeliada corvette during sea trials
In 2014, the head of naval projects for SSM, said that a request for proposals (RfP) for the Batch II (from ship 5) corvettes (also known as MILGEM -G) was expected to be issued by the end of the year. At the same time he said that work on the previously planned TF-100 project for a light frigate to replace some of Turkey's older MEKO 200 frigates had been stopped as "this role will now be covered by the Batch II MILGEM ". The new ships will have an increased length of about 10m and they will include in their equipment a) an Mk41 VLS for Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles (ESSM), b) Phalanx CIWS instead of RAM (logically from the decommissioned Gabya-class frigates), c) two more quadruple SSM launchers, d) perhaps 25mm RWS/guns such as STOP (instead of STAMP), e) further combat system upgrades, f) new anti-torpedo system and g) diesel engines. The ships of the MILGEM Block I will replace gradually the six D'Estienne d'Orves-class/Burak class corvettes while the MILGEM Block II will replace the non-modernized Gabya/O. H. Perry class frigates (4 in service) and the Yavuz (MEKO 200TN Track I) class frigates (4 in service). This year the designation name of the new Batch changed to I-class.



Conceptual drawing of MILGEM-G class. Original photo by Arda Mevlütoğu.
Via turkishnavy.net

MILGEM Batch II class or else Istanbul/I-class



The characteristics of the I-class frigates.
The photo was taken during IDEF 2015.
Till today (June, 2015) only two corvettes have been commissioned by the Turkish Navy and two more are in different phases of construction. The lead ship of the class, TCG Heybeliada (F-511) was launched at t the TNFC's Istanbul Naval Shipyard on September 27, 2008. The cost of the lead ship was around US$260 million. The ship entered in service on September 27, 2011. On the same day and at the same shipyard, the TCG Büyükada (F-512) was launched and exactly two years later, in 2013, she was commissioned into Turkish Navy. The same day the keel for the third ship TCG Burgazada (F-513) was laid. However, the MILGEM programme encountered major setbacks in 2013 that cast doubt over the project's future. Under the original planning a nominated private Turkish shipyard was to work together with Istanbul Naval Shipyard on the third and fourth ships in Pendik in order to transfer the know-how required for the construction of subsequent ships in its own facility, and RMK Marine was selected in January 2013. However, contract negotiations were halted in mid-2013 when a complaint from SEDEF Shipyard sparked a probe. In August the prime minister's inspection office concluded that the tender for follow-on ships was not held in a competitive manner and should therefore be cancelled. The SSM's (Turkish Undersecretariat for Defence Industries) executive committee acknowledged the findings of the inspection office inquiry during a 26 September 2013 meeting and set out a revised procurement strategy in which it was decided that the fourth corvette would now also be built at Istanbul Naval Shipyard while a new tender was opened for the I-class ships. The experience and technological know-how gained with the MILGEM project will play an important role in determining the design characteristics and the development process of the anti-aircraft warfare TF-2000 class frigates.



The two ships of the class (at the moment) in formation

Front view of an Ada class corvette.
The general characteristics of the class is a displacement of approximately 2,300tons at full load, length of 99.5m, beam of 14.4m, maximum speed of +29 knots and a range of 3,500n.m. with the cruising speed of 15 knots. The crew is only 93 people while there is accommodation for 106 passengers including flying crew and technicians (11 people). The propulsion is combined diesel and gas (CODAG) propulsion system, which consists of a gas-turbine and two diesel engines delivering a power of around 30,000kW. The ships carry one medium helicopter (S-70 Seahawk) which can be accommodated in a hangar. Additionally, each corvette carries two rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIB). The ships feature a steel hull and fragmentation resistant composite superstructure. Fore and aft masts and the funnel have been constructed with sea resistant aluminum alloys. The warships of the MILGEM project are designed to fully operate at sea state 5 and partially operate at sea state 6. Reduction and management of the ship signatures was taken as the major input during the whole design phase. Many classified precautions were taken in order to reduce hydrodynamic, acoustic, magnetic signature, Infrared Signature (IR), Radar Cross Section (RCS), and therefore, to achieve the specified level of stealth feature. Collective Protection Zones are designed to ensure the ships ability under NBC conditions. Locally designed degaussing system minimizes the magnetic signature for protection against the magnetic mines. The design focused on reduced Life Cycle Cost while the configuration is easily adaptable to technological improvements and changes due to operational requirements.


Modified photo of an Ada class corvette. For a high resolution image click here


The 76mm gun in action!

OTO Melara Super Rapido gun system
Each ship of the class is equipped with a fully automatic OTO Melara Super Rapido main gun of 76mm/62cal fitted with a stealth cupola and located on the bow deck. The gun is capable to intercept air and surface targets at a distance of 16 km (the effective range is between 5 and 8km) unleashing 120 rounds per minute weighting greater than 6 kg each. In comparison with the basic Compatto of the same manufacturer Super Rapido has an increased rate of 35 rounds per minute. The revolver magazine in the mount holds 85 ready rounds. The gun is remotely controlled but there is provision for an emergency local control as well.


The OTO Melara Super Rapido of Heybeliada. Photo: niki-zlatev.blogspot.com


STAMP operator's console

STAMP RWS. Photo: Aselsan
Except the main gun, for the purpose of asymmetric warfare and coastal defense, the corvettes are equipped with two Aselsan Stabilized Machine Gun Platforms (STAMP) with 12.7mm heavy machine guns. STAMP incorporate advanced features, such as remote operation, built-in electro-optic sensor system, day and night operation, automatic target tracking (detect, track and fire on the move) stabilized turret and ballistic computation. The infrared and daylight TV cameras of the system enable detection and recognition of targets that would not be possible with naked eye. The system is capable of ballistic calculation and automatically tracking the targets and enabling a high hit probability by accurate firings. STAMP System has a stabilized turret which enables the line-of-sight of the gun to be aimed at the target at all times. Due to the stabilization feature, the system can perform precise firings against stationary or moving targets while the platform is on-the-move. System can be operated remotely by using the remote gun control unit and hence provides gunner protection against counter fire. System has additional features of defining firing zones both in azimuth and elevation.



Click to enlarge and save the image to view the details: modified photo of Ada class corvette.
For a high resolution image click here.




Heybeliada's RAM launcher in action

Aft view of the corvette Heybeliada
For specialized anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense (CIWS), the vessels of the class have one Mk 49 Guided Missile Launching System (GMLS) with 21 missiles each ready to launch RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) (Block 1A). The launching system is located atop the helicopter hangar. Together, missiles and launching system comprise the RAM Mk 31 Guided Missile Weapon System (GMWS). RAM is a class-leading weapon system providing a full perimeter protection to the vessel operator. The Block 1A missile has infrared guidance system that enables it to intercept missiles that are not emitting any radar signals while the Block 0 passive radar homing capabilities have been retained. The range exceeds the 9 km and the speed surpasses the 2 Mach.


The RAM launcher

The lead ship of the class in bad weather


Harpoon launcher amidships.
Photo via turkishnavy.net

Harpoon launcher of Heybeliada

 

[fatman17]

Each corvette is equipped with eight (8) Boeing RGM-84L Harpoon anti-ship missiles in two Mk141 quad launchers amidships. Turkey is one of the few countries in the region (together with Egypt) that have this advanced variant (Harpoon Block II missiles are designated -L-) in their military inventory. Harpoon Block II offers an expanded engagement envelope, enhanced resistance to electronic countermeasures and improved targeting. Specifically, the Harpoon was initially designed as an open-ocean weapon. The key improvements of the Harpoon Block II are obtained by incorporating the inertial measurement unit from the Joint Direct Attack Munition program, and the software, computer, Global Positioning System (GPS)/inertial navigation system and GPS antenna/receiver from the SLAM Expanded Response (SLAM-ER), an upgrade to the SLAM. The Harpoon Block II missile can discriminate target ships from islands and other nearby land masses and thus and it provides the Harpoon with a littoral-water anti-ship capability. The Harpoon missiles have a range greater than 120km, a sub-sonic speed of 860km/h (Mach 0.9) and they carry a warhead of 221kg. Harpoon missile has a low-level, sea-skimming cruise trajectory, active radar guidance and it is capable to perform pop-up maneuver which it is a rapid climb of the missile to about 1,800m before diving on the locked target. Once the target is detected, the missile approaches this in a flight height of 2 to 5 meters until impact. The warhead does not discharge directly on impact, but with a time delay, so that the explosion takes place inside the ship and significantly more damage than at a contact igniting weapon.





Validation test of Harpoon Block II by a US Navy Arleigh Burke class destroyer



Twin Mk32 launcher of Heybeliada.
Photo via turkishnavy.net
For Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) the ships are equipped with two twin Mk32 (Mod 9?) 324mm torpedo launchers in fixed positions for Honeywell Mk46 Mod 5 or Mk54 active or passive/active acoustic homing lightweight torpedoes. The Mk46 torpedoes have a range of approximately 8,500-11,000m at 45 knots (maximum speed) and they carry a very powerful warhead of 44.5kg for this category of lightweight torpedoes. They are designed to attack fast submarines and to engage them even over 400m below sea level as well as surface targets (latest variants such as Mod 5). The Mk54 torpedo is the next generation of Mk46 torpedo as it combines the expensive Mk50 search and homing system with the propulsion system of the Mk46 torpedo for optimized performance in the most challenging littoral scenarios. It has a speed over than 40 knots and it carries the same warhead as the Mk46. The decoy system is the BAE Systems Mk 36 Super Rapid Bloom Offboard Countermeasures (SRBOC) Chaff and Decoy Launching System. It is a shipboard, deck-mounted, 6-barreled 130mm mortar-type array that launches type-specific countermeasures against a variety of threats. Following launch and dispersion, Mk36 SRBOC chaff and infrared countermeasures are designed to lure hostile missiles away from ships under attack by creating false target sets. The Mk36 SRBOC launching system is controlled from the ship’s combat management system (see last paragraph), and it is dependent on information provided by the ship’s detection and threat analysis equipment. The Mk36 SRBOC consists of the Mk137 launcher, firing stations at the bridge and CIC, the Mk160 power supply, Mk5 Mod2 or Mod4 Ready Service Lockers (RSLs), and a selection of munitions. Each vessel is equipped with two or four Mk137 launchers. The launching systems are controlled by the KALKAN Decoy Control System that links the decoy launching systems to the ship's ESM, wind and navigation sensors.



TCG Heybeliada.
Photos: turkishnavy.net

Seahawk armed with Mk54 torpedo

Seahawk armed with Hellfire ASM


Seahawk armed with Penguin ASM


Seahawk firing Penguin ASM










View of Heybeliada's hangar


The new Mizrak-D ASM
As it was mentioned earlier, each corvette carries one S-70B Seahawk helicopter. In Turkish service the Seahawks carry a variety of anti-ship missiles such as Penguin Mk2, Hellfire (AGM-114K) and the new long-range ASM developed by Roketsan, the Mizrak-D (variant of UMTAS) as well as Mk46 and the Mk54 lightweight anti-submarine torpedoes. The S-70 can be accommodated in the ships' hangar. The aircraft ship-integrated secure and traverse (ASIST) helicopter handling and tracking system, developed by Curtiss-Wright, ensures the safe landing of the helicopter. There is space in the hangar for UAV.


The stern ramp with the craft retrieval system


Two Rigid-Hull Inflatable Boats (RHIBs) are carried by the corvettes. One of them with its davit is located at port side of the ship. The second RHIB is located over the steering gear room with a boat ramp at the stern.



The complete Ultra Electronics Sea Sentor Surface Ship Torpedo Defence (SSTD) system.
Image: Ultra Electronics


EAD launcher.
Photo via turkishnavy.net

Aselsan HIZIR. Image: Aselsan
The corvettes of the class are equipped with the British Ultra Electronics Sea Sentor Surface Ship Torpedo Defence (SSTD) system. The system consists of an acoustic passive towed array, a towed acoustic countermeasure, a single-drum winch, a processing cabinet, two display consoles, two expendable acoustic device/countermeasures launchers (port and starboard) and 16 expendable acoustic devices (8 in each launcher). The passive acoustic towed array is specifically designed to detect torpedoes and has additional in-built non-acoustic as well as acoustic intercept sensors. Through advanced AI processing it is able to generically identify torpedoes as well as classify specific weapon types and modes and undertake threat evaluation and posturing analysis. The system provides tactical advice dependent upon the specific threat weapon, mode and posture to maximize vessel survivability, which typically involves vessel manoeuvres and also includes the deployment of countermeasures. The countermeasures - both towed and expendable variants - lure the threat away from the vessel in a soft-kill manner by transmitting an acoustic decoy signature in the water. The system equips also the Royal Navy's Type 23 (Duke) class frigates. From the 3rd ship and after, the system will be replaced by the indigenous and more advanced Aselsan HIZIR SSTD. HIZIR is an advanced Surface Ship Torpedo Countermeasure System composed of Towed Array, Towed Decoy, Winch, Electronic Cabinet, Launcher and Expandable Decoy subsystems. The system is integrated with the Sonar, Combat Management System and Ship Data Distribution Unit. HIZIR system is capable of detecting torpedo threats from a distance required for instant counter reaction. Using advanced Detection, Classification and Localization algorithms, the system advises the operator the most suitable tactic required to escape from threat. This includes an evasive maneuvering advice for ship, related parameters and timings for towed decoy and deployment time of expandable decoys.You can watch how the new system works in the following video.


Hard-kill and soft-kill weapon systems of an Ada class corvette. High resolution image here.


Above the ARES-2 EW antennas the SMART-S Mk2 radar.
Photo: turkishnavy.net
The corvettes are equipped with the SMART-S Mk2 which are manufactured locally by Aselsan under license. This system is Thales’s latest 3D multibeam radar that operates in S-band (E/F-band) and it is optimised for medium-to-long-range air and surface surveillance and target designation in littoral environments. The latter consisting of a mix of sea, land, islands, coastal rains and thunderstorms and a multiple of radar targets including small surface targets, helicopters and anti-ship missiles. SMART-S Mk2 is extremely suitable as the main air and surface surveillance radar in a one radar concept for light frigates, corvettes and large landing ships. Pulse-Doppler processing enables fast target track initiation and stealth target detection, even in a cluttered environment. With its 2 main modes, 250-km range for air targets and 80km for surface targets, a track capacity of about 750 tracks, special helicopter mode, surface fire channels, easy installation, high reliability and easy maintainability, SMART-S Mk2 is one of the most advanced radars in its category. Moreover, SMART-S Mk2 is an optimal sensor for target indication to a fire control tracking system. By providing 3D tracks the radar supports correct classification and rapid acquisition.




From up to down: SMART-S, ARES, VMFT, ALPER and STING
Photo: niki-zlatev.blogspot.com



Sting EO system of Heybeliada. Photo: niki-zlatev.blogspot.com
STING-EO Mk2 of Thales is a highly capable, medium range, lightweight, dual band (I and K) weapon control system, primarily for ships' gun control. The system offers support functions such as sector search (with automatic target detection), missile launch detection, projectile position measuring during gun fire and kill assessment support, it supports gun fire control, it performs kill assessment and makes a valuable contribution to classification and identification of threats. In addition, the system can be used as a surveillance sensor, even under radar silence conditions. STING-EO Mk2 combines a 1.2 m radar director with a full set of electro-optic equipment (TV/IR/laser), including optronic tracking and an automatic ‘best sensor’ selection process. The three data sources (I, K and EO) provide high redundancy, high performance and ECCM resistance. A shell-measuring feature is incorporated to support facilities such as Pre-Action Calibration (PAC) and Miss Distance Indication (MDI). The fully solid state STING-EO Mk2 provides the best weapon control for medium-sized vessels. The instrumental ranges are 72km in X-band and 17km in K-band.





Corvette Heybeliada, lead ship of the class. Photos: niki-zlatev.blogspot.com




ALPER LPI Radar. Photo: Aselsan
Frigates, Turkey, Turkish Navy