Operational Purpose and Role

DİMDEG is designed to ensure operational sustainability for Turkish naval task groups during extended blue-water deployments. In modern naval warfare, endurance and logistical continuity are as decisive as firepower and sensor capability. DİMDEG functions as a force multiplier by enabling combatants to remain at sea without returning to port for resupply.

The ship is capable of transferring:

• Marine fuel (F-76)
• Aviation fuel
• Fresh water
• Ammunition
• Spare parts
• Medical supplies
• Food and general consumables

This capacity significantly enhances operational reach in regions such as the Eastern Mediterranean, Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and NATO operational theaters.

Doctrine and Concept of Operations

DİMDEG operates as a Fleet Replenishment and Support Ship within a naval task force structure.

Underway Replenishment (RAS)

The vessel supports frigates, corvettes, amphibious ships, and potentially submarines through Replenishment at Sea procedures compliant with NATO standards.

Command and Control Role

Thanks to its large internal volume and advanced communication systems, DİMDEG can serve as a coordination platform during complex maritime operations, including humanitarian missions and evacuation operations.

Non-Combat Operations

The ship is designed to support:

• Humanitarian assistance
• Disaster relief
• Counter-piracy missions
• Search and rescue
• Non-combatant evacuation operations

This multifunctional role distinguishes it from conventional fleet tankers.

Platform Architecture

Sensor and Electronic Systems

Integrated systems include:

• Navigation radars
• Helicopter control radar
• KIRLANGIÇ electro-optical day/night surveillance system
• IFF system
• Satellite communication systems

These systems are primarily supplied by ASELSAN.

Combat and Data Systems

Under the ASELSAN–HAVELSAN partnership, the ship incorporates:

• Combat Management System
• Ship Data Distribution System
• Message Handling System
• Integrated Ship Information System

This enables NATO-compatible network-centric operations.

Survivability and Protection

Although not a front-line combatant, DİMDEG possesses self-defense capabilities against asymmetric threats.

Weapon System

• ASELSAN STOP 25mm Stabilized Remote Weapon System

The system is effective against:

• Fast attack craft
• Small boat swarms
• Low-altitude aerial threats
• Asymmetric maritime threats

Armor configuration and damage control specifics are not publicly disclosed.

Engagement and Reaction Capability

DİMDEG’s primary role is logistics rather than combat engagement.

• No long-range missile systems are publicly reported.
• Defensive capability is focused on close-range protection.
• Detection capacity is optimized for navigation and self-defense purposes.

Integrated Ecosystem

DİMDEG is designed to operate in coordination with:

• Frigates
• Corvettes
• Amphibious assault ships
• Naval helicopters
• Task force command elements

Details regarding UAV integration are not publicly available.

Advantages Against Modern Threats

Strengths:

• High domestic content ratio
• Network-enabled command capability
• Multi-role operational flexibility
• Extended endurance at sea

Limitations:

• Limited air defense capability
• Large displacement increases detectability
• Requires escort in high-threat environments

Variants and Modernization

Publicly available information indicates a single baseline configuration. Export variants or block upgrades have not been officially disclosed.

Detailed Technical Specifications

Dimensions and Displacement

• Length: 194.8 meters
• Beam: 24.4 meters
• Displacement: 22,000 tons

Performance

• Range: 4,500 nautical miles
• Endurance: More than 30 days
• Service life: Over 30 years

Maximum speed and propulsion system details are not publicly disclosed.

Sensors

• Navigation radar systems
• Helicopter control radar
• Electro-optical surveillance system
• Identification Friend or Foe (IFF)

Armament

• 25mm STOP Stabilized Remote Weapon System

Command and Control

• Integrated Combat Management System
• Satellite communications
• NATO-compatible data infrastructure

Logistics Capacity

Precise fuel and ammunition transfer capacity figures are not publicly disclosed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DİMDEG used for?

• DİMDEG provides underway replenishment to extend the operational duration of naval task groups. It also serves as a coordination and support platform in humanitarian and multinational missions.

Is DİMDEG a combat ship?

• No. It is a combat support ship with limited self-defense capability. Its primary mission is logistical sustainment.

What is its operational range?

• The ship has a range of approximately 4,500 nautical miles and can remain at sea for more than 30 days.

Which ships can it support?

• It is designed to support NATO-standard surface combatants and amphibious vessels through underway replenishment procedures.

Does it have missile systems?

• There is no publicly disclosed information indicating the presence of missile systems. It is equipped with a 25mm stabilized remote weapon system for self-defense.

Is it larger than TCG Anadolu?

• No. It is planned to be the second-largest vessel in the Turkish Navy after  

TCG Anadolu.

Sources

• Official statements from Sefine Shipyard
• ASELSAN official product documentation
• HAVELSAN combat management system publications
• Public releases from the Turkish Naval Forces
• Presidency of Defence Industries (SSB) announcements