Turkish frigate represents Türkiye at US 250th anniversary events

The Turkish Navy frigate TCG Oruçreis represented Türkiye at maritime events in New York held as part of US celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the nation's independence. The vessel, carrying 176 crew members, anchored on the Hudson River and will remain in New York Harbor until July 8. Capt. Kemal Varlı, commanding officer of the TCG Oruçreis, told Anadolu that the frigate showcases the Turkish Navy's “high operational capability, professionalism and ability to carry out joint missions with allied forces.”

Modernisation and technology

Varlı said the vessel’s modernisation was completed in 2025 with domestically developed defence technologies including advanced combat management, radar, electronic warfare, sensor, communications and command-control systems. He said the visit also highlights Türkiye’s active role in NATO and its contribution to international maritime security. More than 20 countries joined the maritime events with military and historic vessels.

Next destination

The TCG Oruçreis, a Barbaros-class frigate, entered the Turkish Navy’s inventory in 1997. It is scheduled to sail from New York to Dublin on July 8. The frigate’s participation in the US anniversary events underscores the strong naval ties between Türkiye and the United States, and comes just days after the vessel participated in FLEETEX-250, a multinational exercise marking the anniversary. The visit also coincides with the NATO summit in Ankara, highlighting Türkiye’s active engagement with the alliance.