Turkey has added another achievement to its domestic and national initiatives in the defense industry. In a magnificent ceremony held at Anadolu Shipyard, the first ship of the New Type Landing Ship (YLCT) project, YLCT Ç-159, was launched on February 22, 2025.
This launch marks the beginning of an eight-ship project that will enhance the amphibious operational capabilities of the Turkish Navy and reinforce Türkiye's power in the Blue Homeland.
The YLCT project was launched in early 2024, and the official contract was signed in April 2024. However, the launching of the first ship, YLCT Ç-159, just 10 months after the contract was signed, demonstrates the speed and efficiency of Türkiye's shipbuilding industry. The Head of the Defense Industry described this achievement as "another major step in our national defense industry" and stated that it was a day of pride for the Turkish defense ecosystem.
The second ship will be ready to set sail just one week after the first. The entire project encompasses eight ships, aiming to meet the operational needs of the Turkish Navy. The YLCT-class ships are designed to carry three domestically produced ALTAY tanks or various other types of vehicles and troops.
YLCT will be used not only for military operations but also for critical missions such as natural disasters, humanitarian aid, and evacuation operations. This versatility makes the ship a strategic asset for the Turkish Navy. It was emphasized that the ship will enhance the navy's deterrent power and strengthen Türkiye's strength in the Blue Homeland.
The YLCT Ç-159 will join the Turkish Navy this year after final testing. The remaining seven ships will be delivered within 27 months, further enhancing Türkiye's amphibious landing capabilities. This project, along with other major defense projects such as a domestically designed aircraft carrier and next-generation submarines, is transforming Türkiye into a regional and global naval power.
Table: Summary of the YLCT Project
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Project Start | Beginning of 2024 |
| Contract Date | April 2024 |
| Total Number of Ships | 8 |
| First Ship Name | YLCT C-159 |
| Launch Date | February 22, 2025 |
| Carrying Capacity | 3 ALTAY tanks or other vehicles |
| Areas of Application | Military, humanitarian aid, natural disaster operations |
| Local Content Rate | %80’in üzerinde |
Technical Specifications of the New Type Landing Craft (YLCT) C-159
- Electric Power: 2 x 300 kW Diesel Generators
- Push System:
- 2 x 2400 kW Main Motors
- 2 x Reverse Reduction Gearboxes
- 2 x Fixed Propellers
- Speed: Maximum 18.0 knots
- Navigation:
- Navigation Radar
- Fiber Optic NIS
- WECDIS
- DGPS
- Eco Sound Meter
- Electromagnetic Log
- Crew:
- 2 Officers
- 4 Non-commissioned officers
- 14 Er
- Weaponry:
- 2 x 12.7mm Stabilized Balls
- 2 x 30mm Remote Controlled Balls
- Load Capacity:
- 200-ton mixed vehicle
- 3 battle tanks or 260 marines
- 400 m² vehicle deck
- Capacity to transport 7 battle tanks from pier to pier.
- Communication:
- 2 x 125W HF
- 1 x 50W VHF
- 2 x V/UHF
- VHF DSC IMM
- CONDITION
- EPIRB
- NAVTEX
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