
ASELSAN Unveils Groundbreaking Upgrade for MEKO Frigates Worldwide
ASELSAN has triumphantly completed the BARBAROS-Class Frigates Mid-Life Enhancement (BARBAROS-MLU) Project, marking a significant achievement by upgrading 21 systems on TCG ORUÇREİS with advanced, homegrown solutions. Fueled by the vision to fulfill the distinct requirements of both domestic and global clients, the company has cultivated unmatched expertise, particularly in maritime advancements.
ASELSAN, Türkiye’s foremost defense enterprise, has established a new standard in naval platform enhancement through the successful fulfillment of the provisional acceptance of the BARBAROS-Class Frigates Mid-Life Enhancement (BARBAROS-MLU) Project, acknowledged as the most extensive MEKO-class frigate modernization effort globally. Initiated by the Turkish Presidency of Defence Industries, the BARBAROS-MLU Project aspires to upgrade the capacities of the BARBAROS-Class Frigates, integral to the Turkish Naval Forces’ defense strategy.
Providing a complete combat system integration solution customized to the specific requirements of the Turkish Naval Forces, a total of 21 systems aboard TCG ORUÇREİS have been upgraded under ASELSAN’s primary contractorship. Among the noteworthy improvements are radar, electronic warfare, integrated combat and satellite communication, electro-optic, weapon and fire control, as well as underwater and navigation support systems; all of which markedly enhance the operational capacities of TCG ORUÇREİS.
Moreover, in addition to modernizing weapon and electronic infrastructures, ASELSAN engaged in extensive redesign projects, such as main mast modifications, above and below deck arrangement assessments, and various analyses concerning marine stability, HVAC structures, power distribution, and electromagnetic compatibility.
ASELSAN President & CEO Ahmet Akyol highlighted the importance of this achievement, noting: “We take pride in completing the world’s most comprehensive MEKO-class frigate modernization by rejuvenating the 21 systems on TCG ORUÇREİS with our cutting-edge naval solutions. Leveraging this substantial experience, ASELSAN is equipped to meet the demands of all navies, with its innovative and efficient naval systems gaining international acclaim. We are committed to delivering the most sophisticated systems to our Navy and allied countries’ naval forces.”

ASELSAN Systems on TCG ORUÇREİS:
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





