Aselsan Completes Major MEKO Frigate Upgrade

ASELSAN has successfully completed the BARBAROS-Class Frigates Mid-Life Upgrade (BARBAROS-MLU) Project, marking a significant milestone in naval platform modernization. The temporary acceptance of TCG ORUÇREİS has been finalized, with 21 advanced indigenous systems now fully integrated, establishing this as the world’s most comprehensive MEKO-class frigate modernization program to date.

Strategic Significance for Turkish Naval Forces

Launched by the Turkish Presidency of Defence Industries, the BARBAROS-MLU Project aims to significantly enhance the capabilities of these frigates, which form a critical component of the Turkish Naval Forces’ defense strategy. The extensive modernization addresses key operational requirements with tailored solutions designed specifically for Turkiye maritime security needs.

Comprehensive Systems Integration

Under ASELSAN’s main contractorship, TCG ORUÇREİS has received major upgrades across multiple domains:

Radar Systems

• AKREP Fire Control Radar
• CENK 3D Surveillance Radar

Electronic Warfare Systems

• ARES NEWS Central Management System
• AREAS Electronic Countermeasure System
• ARES Electronic Support System
• KARTACA-N Chaff/Decoy Launching System

Communication Systems

• GEMS Integrated Naval Communication System
• TUMSIS X-Band Satellite Communication System
• IdentIFF Mode 5 Identification Friend or Foe System

Electro-Optic Systems

• LIAS Laser Warning Receiver System
• PİRİ Infrared Search and Track System
• MARTI Electro-Optical Reconnaissance and Surveillance System

Weapon Systems

• SMASH Remote-Controlled Stabilized Gun System
• GÖKDENİZ Close-in Weapon System (CIWS)

Fire Control Systems

• ATMACA Fire Control System
• TAKS Gun Fire Control System

Underwater Systems

• FERSAH Hull Mounted ASW Sonar
• HIZIR Torpedo Countermeasure System

Navigation Systems

• MİTOS WECDIS
• KULAÇ Echo Sounder System
• ANS Inertial Navigation Systems

Extensive Ship Modification Works

Beyond systems integration, ASELSAN undertook substantial structural modifications to accommodate the new capabilities. These included redesigning the main mast, reconfiguring spaces above and below deck, and conducting comprehensive analyses related to marine stability, HVAC systems, power distribution, and electromagnetic compatibility to ensure seamless operation of all new systems.

Leadership Perspective

ASELSAN President & CEO Ahmet Akyol highlighted the significance of this achievement: “We are proud to complete the world’s most comprehensive MEKO-class frigate modernization by renewing the 21 systems on TCG ORUÇREİS with our advanced naval solutions. Drawing on this extensive experience, ASELSAN is capable of addressing the needs of all navies, with its innovative and effective naval systems gaining worldwide recognition. We will continue to provide the most advanced systems to our Navy and the navies of allied countries.”

Also read this: Aselsan Secures $616M To Boost Turkiye Air Defense

Global Implications

This successful modernization program demonstrates ASELSAN’s growing capabilities in naval systems integration and positions the company as a significant player in the global naval modernization market. The comprehensive nature of this upgrade showcases Turkiye increasing self-sufficiency in defense technology and its ability to execute complex naval modernization projects independently.

Future Outlook

With the successful completion of TCG ORUÇREİS’s modernization, ASELSAN has established a proven template for upgrading similar naval platforms worldwide. This achievement opens new opportunities for international collaboration and exports of Turkish defense technology, particularly to nations operating aging MEKO-class frigates seeking cost-effective modernization solutions to extend operational lifespans and enhance capabilities.

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