The TCG DERYA is a versatile naval support ship built for the Turkish Navy, providing both supply capabilities and command functions for effective sea-based operations.
As part of Turkey’s DİMDEG initiative, the TCG DERYA (A-1590) has been designed as a support and command ship that supplies multiple vessels with essential resources and coordinates operations in open seas. Originally launched in 2018 and delivered in 2024, the TCG DERYA incorporates significant upgrades to its original design, including expanded displacement, advanced ASELSAN defense systems, and increased tower capacity. Now the second-largest ship in the Turkish fleet, it plays a key role in both military and humanitarian missions, equipped with unmanned vehicle deployment and high-end combat and intelligence systems.
Overview of the DİMDEG Project
In 2016, Turkey’s Undersecretariat for Defense Industries (SSM) launched the DİMDEG Supply Project to equip the Turkish Navy with a Replenishment at Sea Combat Support Ship. This vessel, named DİMDEG, is designed to support multiple ships at once in open sea and transoceanic operations by supplying essentials such as fuel, water, food, spare parts, medical supplies, and ammunition. In wartime, DİMDEG will also serve as a command and control center, leveraging its advanced combat management capabilities.
Initial Design and Contract
On July 10, 2018, a contract was signed between the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) and Sefine Shipyard to deliver the TCG DERYA (A-1590) within 58 months. Major Turkish defense firms, including ASELSAN and HAVELSAN, participated in the project led by Sefine Shipyard, aiming for a 77% domestic production contribution.
Design Evolution
Originally introduced in 2018, the DİMDEG’s design featured a displacement of 22,000 tons, two towers, and two 20mm Phalanx CIWS. However, the design was substantially revised, increasing the displacement to over 26,000 tons, adding two additional towers, and replacing the Phalanx CIWS with ASELSAN’s 35mm Gökdeniz CIWS.
Launch and Delivery
The TCG DERYA was launched in October 2021 and delivered to the Turkish Naval Forces on January 19, 2024. This vessel, now the second-largest in the Turkish fleet after the LHD ANADOLU (L-400), is capable of joint operations with unmanned naval vehicles (İDAs). With its deployment capabilities, TCG DERYA can rapidly dispatch multiple İDAs across mission zones, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs. ASELSAN developed the MİR S/İDA family in collaboration with Sefine Shipyard.
Capabilities of TCG DERYA
– Replenishment at Sea (solid and liquid supplies, ammunition)
– Logistics transportation
– Command and control
– Intelligence gathering
– Search and rescue operations
– Disaster response
– Humanitarian assistance and evacuation
Specifications of TCG DERYA
– Length: 194.8 meters
– Width: 24.4 meters
– Displacement: Over 26,000 tons
– Maximum speed: 24 knots
– Range: 4,500 nautical miles
– Cargo Capacity: 9,000 tons of F-76 fuel, 1,000 tons of F-44 fuel, 800 tons of fresh water, and space for 48 containers
Propulsion and Technical Systems
– Engines: 2 General Electric LM-2500 gas turbines, 2 diesel engines, and 2 electric motors
– Radar: ASELSAN MAR-D Helicopter Control Radar
– Combat Management: HAVELSAN ADVENT System
– Sea Endurance: Over 30 days
– Crew: 326
– Defense: Two ASELSAN 35mm Gökdeniz CIWS (front and rear), and two ASELSAN 25mm STOP systems
– Helicopter Capacity: 1 on the deck, 2 in the hangar
With these capabilities and specifications, TCG DERYA is a versatile support and command vessel, equipped to meet the operational demands of the Turkish Navy in both peace and wartime scenarios.
