Türkiye showcases growing naval capabilities at top maritime festival

Naval commandos took center stage during the second day of Teknofest Blue Homeland at the Gölcük Naval Shipyard Command in Kocaeli, Turkey. The event, running through August 23, featured a variety of demonstrations highlighting the nation’s maritime defense capabilities. Underwater Assault (SAT) and Underwater Defense (SAS) teams conducted simulations involving drifting mines, unmanned vessels, hostage situations, and the recovery of a captured commercial ship. These exercises were designed to showcase the Turkish navy’s readiness for real-world scenarios. During one operation, commandos executed a dramatic water entry from a helicopter to neutralize a drifting mine and an unmanned surface vessel. Later, a SAT team used fast assault boats to conduct a shoreline rescue of a hostage taken by a simulated armed group. In another exercise, divers infiltrated a harbor using underwater infrastructure and cables, eventually reaching the shore to deploy a Turkish flag. The day concluded with commandos boarding and reclaiming a commercial vessel that had been seized by simulated enemy forces. The TCG Anadolu, a multipurpose amphibious assault ship, was among the key naval platforms open to the public. Long lines formed throughout the day as visitors toured the ship, examining its flight deck, hangar, and mission areas. Flight demonstrations included SH-70 Seahawk and AH-1W Super Cobra helicopters, a CN-235 maritime patrol aircraft, and several unmanned aerial vehicles such as the Bayraktar TB2, TB3, and Akıncı. These displays underscored the integration of both manned and unmanned systems within the Turkish military framework. Defense companies like Aselsan and Roketsan presented their latest maritime and underwater technologies, emphasizing advancements in domestic production. The event also featured historical naval artifacts, including the Savarona and the museum ship Yavuz, alongside modern warships and submarines. This juxtaposition highlighted both the legacy and the evolving nature of Turkey’s naval presence. One of the most anticipated exhibits was the first test block of the MILDEN, Turkey’s national submarine project. Designed to be over 80 meters long with a displacement of approximately 2,700 tons, the MILDEN aims to perform a range of missions, including anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, mine-laying, and supporting task groups. Construction of the submarine is set to occur at the Gölcük Naval Shipyard, with new infrastructure being developed to facilitate the project. The MILDEN display offered attendees a rare look into Turkey’s efforts to achieve self-reliance in building advanced military platforms. Unmanned systems played a crucial role in the festival, with various unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) showcased by defense firms. These included the ULAQ from Ares Shipyard and Meteksan, the Sancar from Havelsan, the Marlin from Aselsan, and the Salvo from Dearsan Shipyard. Each system demonstrated how unmanned platforms can contribute to reconnaissance, surveillance, and combat operations while minimizing risk to human operators. Additionally, young engineers and students participated in competitions focused on unmanned technologies, reflecting the emphasis on innovation and youth engagement in the defense sector. The event attracted a wide audience, drawing attention from both military personnel and civilians interested in observing the breadth of Turkey’s naval capabilities. With the participation of high-ranking officials such as the National Defense Minister and the Chief of General Staff, the festival reinforced the strategic importance of maritime defense in the region. As the event continues through its final days, it will provide further insight into the technological advancements shaping the future of Turkey’s naval forces.