Turkey Initiates Nuclear-Powered Submarine Development Amid Global Power Aspirations
Turkey's Defense Minister announced plans for a nuclear-powered submarine, aiming to enhance naval capabilities and deterrence. The project aligns with Turkey's broader vision of becoming a global power, focusing on technology development and international cooperation.
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Turkey's Defense Minister Yaşar Güler confirmed the initiation of a nuclear-powered submarine project, NÜKDEN, as part of the National Submarine Project (MİLDEN). This initiative aims to enhance Turkey's naval capabilities and deterrence in the eastern Mediterranean, focusing on long-range submarines with low detectability.
The project emphasizes development using domestic technology, though Turkey is open to collaborating with NATO allies for nuclear propulsion. Challenges include reactor design, nuclear safety protocols, and crew training.
Turkey's defense budget for 2026 is set at $27.34 billion, with procurement allocations influencing project viability. The concurrent development of the MUGEM aircraft carrier may limit rapid progress on nuclear submarines. Achieving a fully operational nuclear submarine by the 2030s will require sustained investment and prioritization.
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