OVERVIEW: The S 353 Preveze [Type 209-1400, Preveze/Gür Class] is a diesel-electric submarine operated by the Turkish Naval Forces. Commissioned in 1999, it represents an advanced iteration of the ubiquitous Type 209 design, specifically tailored to Turkish requirements and operational doctrines. The Preveze-class, along with the subsequent Gür-class, forms the backbone of Turkey’s submarine fleet, providing crucial capabilities for maritime security and power projection in the Eastern Mediterranean and Black Sea regions.

DETAILS:
The Preveze class (Type 209-1400) submarines are a derivative of the German Type 209 design, a globally successful export submarine celebrated for its reliability, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability. The Type 209-1400 variant represents a significant upgrade over earlier models, incorporating improved noise reduction measures, a more powerful propulsion system, and enhanced sensor suites. These enhancements address the evolving threat environment and expand the submarine's operational envelope. The Preveze class program was initiated to modernize the Turkish submarine fleet and bolster its indigenous shipbuilding capabilities, with elements of the construction process taking place in Turkey under license from Germany. This approach allowed for the transfer of technology and expertise, contributing to the long-term growth of Turkey's defense industry. The naming convention follows a pattern of commemorating historical naval victories, emphasizing Turkey's maritime heritage.

The primary roles of the S 353 Preveze encompass anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). In an ASW capacity, the submarine leverages its advanced sonar systems to detect, track, and engage enemy submarines, protecting vital sea lanes and naval assets. In ASuW operations, it employs torpedoes to neutralize surface combatants and merchant vessels, contributing to sea denial efforts. Furthermore, the S 353 Preveze can conduct covert ISR missions, gathering intelligence on enemy forces and coastal installations, providing critical information for strategic decision-making. The S 353 Preveze also has a limited anti-air warfare (AAW) capability through the engagement of helicopters and slow-moving aircraft at short ranges.

The S 353 Preveze is equipped with a comprehensive suite of sensors to maintain situational awareness and effectively engage targets. The FAS 3-1 sonar system provides active and passive detection capabilities, enabling the submarine to locate and classify underwater contacts. The TAS-3 towed array sonar enhances passive detection range, particularly in noisy environments. The S 63B sonar system offers additional acoustic intelligence gathering capabilities. The Type 242 Sealion radar provides surface search and navigation functions. The CSU 83/1 and IPS CSU 83 integrated sonar processing and command system allows for efficient data fusion and target tracking. The MAS 83 mine avoidance sonar enhances safety during operations in mine-infested waters. The Generic Submarine Periscope (Optical and LLTV) provides visual and low-light observation capabilities. The 533mm torpedo tubes allow for the deployment of a range of torpedoes against surface and subsurface targets. The Signal Ejector allows for the deployment of countermeasures and communications buoys.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 61.2 m || Beam: 6.3 m || Draft: 5.5 m || Disp: 1454 t

SENSORS: FAS 3-1 || TAS-3 || S 63B || Type 242 Sealion || CSU 83/1 || IPS CSU 83 || MAS 83 || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: 533mm TT || Signal Ejector