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The TCG Gelibolu (F-493), described as a "floating fortress of the Blue Homeland," is preparing for deployment with NATO's Standing Naval Force, representing one of the Turkish Naval Command's largest and most advanced warships.
The Gabya-class frigate, which has served in the Mediterranean Shield Operation, NATO maritime security activities and the Libya Turkish Naval Task Force, showcases Türkiye's growing naval capabilities through its domestically developed systems and multi-role combat capabilities.
The 4,100-ton displacement frigate measures approximately 138 meters in length and 14 meters in width. With its dual General Electric LM2500 gas turbines producing 41,000 horsepower, the vessel achieves speeds exceeding 29 knots.
"TCG Gelibolu can simultaneously execute fundamental warfare types including air defense, surface warfare and anti-submarine warfare," Captain Ceylan said. "The ship can deploy two helicopters and has the capability to transit from Türkiye to the U.S. without refueling, with a range of 5,400 nautical miles and 60-day provisions capacity."
The frigate operates with approximately 200 crew members and can conduct uninterrupted operations at sea for months. The vessel features twin helicopter hangars and a flight deck, accommodating naval patrol helicopters, including S-70B Seahawk aircraft for surface warfare and anti-submarine operations.
Our ship is one of eight highly advanced Gabya-class frigates in our naval inventory," said Naval Captain Arda Ceylan, commander of TCG Gelibolu. "Commissioned in 1999 when the Turkish flag was first hoisted, our ship takes its name from the lands where the glorious Canakkale epic was written with heroism."
"TCG Gelibolu is one of eight Gabya-class frigates in our fleet. It was named after the heroic battleground of Gallipoli," said Commander Navy Captain Arda Ceylan.
Captain Ceylan explained the vessel's motto reflects its heritage: "Our slogan represents the unity of symbols that identify with the Canakkale epic and our ship's spirit, written by Gazi Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and his comrades in arms–'pride of the seas from past to future.'"
The ship's modernization centers on the GENESIS combat management system, developed entirely by Turkish forces. The Turkish naval forces launched the project in 1999 to meet operational requirements using national resources.
The Naval Forces Research Center Command (ARMERKOM) designed all GENESIS software and hardware, with patents registered under the Naval Forces Command.
The developed system was subsequently transferred to the domestic defense sector, with Havelsan collaborating on the modernization.
GENESIS integrates various weapons, sensors and electronic systems, including PHALANX, CHAFF and IFF subsystems. The modernized Phalanx Close-In Weapon System gained surface engagement capability, particularly effective against asymmetric threats.
GENESIS has modernized the platform with capabilities such as:
Each Combat Information Center (CIC) console can operate independently, ensuring redundancy and full-system access across stations.
The system provides automated reconnaissance, surveillance, detection, tracking and classification using ship sensors. Key enhancements include:
Four of eight ships received Mk41 Vertical Launch Systems for ESSM surface-to-air missiles, Smart-S Mk-2 3D search radars, and Mk-54 torpedo firing capability. After modernization, weapons previously operated from two consoles can now be controlled from any Combat Information Center console, with each station capable of replacing another.
Beyond combat systems, TCG Gelibolu provides comprehensive facilities for crew welfare. The ship features officer and petty officer lounges where personnel read books, play chess and engage in sports activities.
A fully equipped medical facility enables minor operations, staffed by a medical officer. The vessel also includes a gymnasium, ensuring crew fitness during extended deployments.
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