The new Test and Training Vessel (TVEG) TCG Ufuk (A-591) of the Turkish Navy recently began sea trials. Ufuk has a similar hull and superstructure design with the Ada-class corvettes however it is equipped with a different type of Main Propulsion System (MPS). The ship features a secondary mast, new electronics but has no hangar and armament.

Testing and Training Ship TCG Ufuk's ongoing navigation tests are continuing at the equipment activities for Signal Intelligence (SIGINT & ELINT) capabilities.

A contract was signed with Istanbul Shipyard (Istanbul Shipyard) in 2017 for the production of the ship designed by STM. On May 15, 2017, a contract was signed between STM and İŞBİR for 4 × 750 kVA power generators to be used in the Test and Training Ship (TVEG). The ship's mission systems are supplied by Aselsan.

The assembly of the ship, which was manufactured in 30 blocks by the Istanbul Maritime Shipyard, on the sled, including the upper building and poles, was completed on 24 July 2018. Approximately 920 tons of sheet metal, 12.5 tons of aluminium, 6 thousand 340 meters of pipes were processed and brought together for the ship. The test ship, the first source of which was made on May 2, 2017, officially named A-591 board number and Ufuk, is planned to be delivered on July 31, 2020. A-591 Horizon Corvette will be an important factor in increasing the capacity of the national intelligence system.

The Test and Training Ship will be used as A-591 Horizon Intelligence Ship (SIGINT & ELINT). TCG Ufuk has a length of 99.5 meters, a maximum width of 14.4 meters, 3.6 meters of the draft and 2400 tons of displacement. With a total power of about 8600 kWh, 18+ knots can reach maximum speed. The A-591 Ufuk, which has a 10-ton heliport, has the capacity to travel continuously for 45 days, including international waters, in severe climates and sea conditions.

Date: 20.07.2020

Source: Navy Recognition