In an exclusive interview with Warships International Fleet Review magazine, Admiral Ercüment Tatlıoğlu, Commander of the Turkish Naval Forces, spoke for the first time about Turkey’s plan to develop a nuclear-powered submarine. In this way, it has been confirmed that Turkey is taking steps for the production of a nuclear-propelled submarine, following the national submarine project MİLDEN, which Turkey has been working on for a long time.

Turkey may develop a nuclear submarine

Tatlıoğlu stated that the Turkish Naval Forces’ efforts towards the goal of producing a fully independent, indigenously designed submarine that eliminates foreign dependence is the result of a 139-year-old dream dating back to the Ottoman Empire.

Turkey’s submarine production capability has been continuing uninterruptedly at Gölcük Shipyard for nearly half a century. The technical and operational know-how acquired in this process has reached a very important level with the Reis-class submarines.

Tatlıoğlu announced that these gains will be transferred to new generation platforms, thus creating the necessary infrastructure for the construction of nuclear-powered submarines. This will be a defence move that will increase Turkey’s long-term deterrence capability.

Tatlıoğlu also stated that the platforms to be produced under MİLDEN will be exported to friendly and allied countries. Turkey plans to become a new supplier for countries that want to reduce their dependence on foreign countries in this field.

The picture painted by Admiral Tatlıoğlu revealed that Turkey’s naval vision has gone beyond regional security and is now focussing on global goals. So what do you think about this issue? You can easily share your opinions with us in the comments section below.