Turkey enhances capabilities with arrival of first P-72
Fleet of converted ATR-72s will broaden maritime surveillance and ASW capabilities for the Turkish Navy.
The Turkish Navy on 11 December passed a milestone in the MELTEM-3 programme when it received its first P-72 MPA.
This aircraft brings capabilities — such as Link 16 tactical data link and the ability to carry the MK 54 lightweight ASW torpedo — which are not available with legacy CN-235 aircraft operated by the Turkish Navy.
Furthermore, P-72s will have the ability to operate for longer periods; this is no small consideration for an increasingly assertive Turkey, which is keen to enhance maritime surveillance and situational awareness in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean.
New capabilities aside, the
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