Aselsan has concluded the mid-life upgrade (MLU) programme on the Turkish Navy’s Barbaros-class frigate, TCG ORUÇREİS, enhancing its operational capabilities with advanced indigenous solutions.
The Barbaros-MLU project, launched by the Turkish Presidency of Defence Industries, is noted as the most comprehensive modernisation initiative for MEKO-class frigates globally.
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The project’s aim is to bolster the capabilities of the Barbaros-class frigates, which are based on the MEKO 200 TN-II design by Blohm + Voss.
TCG ORUÇREİS (F-245) was laid in July 1992, launched in July 1994, and commissioned in May 1996.
The Barbaros-class frigates have been equipped with a combined diesel or gas (CODOG) propulsion system and feature a complete citadel for improved nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) protection.
Under Aselsan’s main contractorship, TCG ORUÇREİS has undergone a transformation with the renewal of 21 systems.
These enhancements include radar, electronic warfare, integrated combat and satellite communication systems, electro-optic, weapon and fire control systems, as well as underwater and navigation support systems.
In addition, Aselsan has also carried out redesign work that involved main mast modifications, above and below deck arrangement activities, and analyses related to marine stability, and more.
Aselsan president and CEO Ahmet Akyol said: “We are proud to complete the world’s most comprehensive MEKO-class frigate modernisation 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.”
This milestone follows Aselsan’s first live fire test of its Göksur vertical launch system (VLS) from a Turkish Navy surface platform.
The test was conducted on 16 February 2025 from the TCG Beykoz vessel, off the coast of Sinop in northern Türkiye.
