Anadolu Agency April 2023
TCG Anadolu is Turkey’s largest warship and the world’s first dedicated drone carrier, commissioned on April 10, 2023.
Originally designed to operate F-35 fighter jets, the ship was reconfigured after U.S. sanctions prevented Turkey from acquiring the aircraft. It now serves as a platform for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), such as the Bayraktar TB2.
Operational Capabilities:
Air Wing: Capable of operating heavy and light helicopters, plus fixed-wing UAVs
Amphibious Assault: Can transport up to 1,200 personnel, 13 main battle tanks, 27 amphibious assault vehicles, and 33 other vehicles
Well Deck: Houses four Landing Craft Mechanized (LCM), two Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC), or two Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel (LCVP)
Crew: 261 personnel
The ship features a full-length flight deck with a ski-jump ramp, enabling vertical and short takeoff operations for drones and helicopters while maintaining traditional amphibious landing capabilities.
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