TAI Meltem II (CN-235)** – a maritime patrol and surveillance aircraft developed for anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, and maritime operations.
In brief
The TAI Meltem II (CN-235) is a maritime patrol aircraft, developed through a collaboration between Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) and Airbus Military. It is based on the CN-235 platform and customized for maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare (ASW), and search-and-rescue (SAR) operations. The aircraft is equipped with advanced mission systems, including a surface search radar, an Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensor, and a Magnetic Anomaly Detector (MAD) for submarine detection. With a cruising speed of 240 knots (445 km/h), it can cover extended ranges up to 2,430 miles (3,910 km) and has the capability to remain airborne for more than eight hours. The Meltem II also features a weapons bay for torpedoes and depth charges, providing the flexibility to engage underwater targets. It plays a crucial role in Turkey’s coastal defense and maritime security strategy, offering advanced surveillance capabilities.
The TAI Meltem II (CN-235)
The development of the TAI Meltem II (CN-235) aircraft reflects a period in the late 20th and early 21st century when maritime security became a pressing concern for coastal nations like Turkey. The geopolitical situation in the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas demanded a stronger focus on naval surveillance and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities. As Turkey’s maritime traffic increased and territorial disputes in the surrounding waters became more frequent, the need for a robust maritime patrol aircraft became critical.
In response to this requirement, Turkey launched the Meltem program in collaboration with European aerospace companies. The goal of this program was to modernize the Turkish Navy’s maritime patrol capabilities by providing a fleet of aircraft equipped for advanced surveillance and ASW missions. The Turkish government sought an aircraft that could monitor extensive maritime borders, detect and track surface and subsurface threats, and support search-and-rescue (SAR) operations.
The development of the TAI Meltem II (CN-235) began in the early 2000s. The CN-235 platform, which was originally developed by Airbus Military (formerly CASA), had proven itself as a reliable and versatile twin-engine medium transport aircraft. Its adaptability and robust design made it a suitable candidate for conversion into a specialized maritime patrol aircraft. Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) took the lead in customizing the CN-235 for maritime operations, integrating mission systems and equipment that would enhance its capabilities for anti-submarine warfare and maritime reconnaissance.
The program was formalized under the Meltem II designation in 2002, with the first aircraft taking to the skies in 2005. The Turkish Navy, as the primary user, needed the aircraft to fulfill its increasing responsibilities in monitoring and defending the country’s extensive coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The program also aimed to provide Turkey with an indigenous capability to patrol its waters independently, rather than relying on foreign assets or technology.
The development of the Meltem II aircraft was not only a technological achievement but also represented a strategic shift in Turkey’s defense policy. With rising tensions in the Mediterranean region, where disputes over maritime boundaries, energy exploration rights, and migration issues became more frequent, Turkey recognized the need for greater control over its maritime domain. The Meltem II aircraft provided the Turkish Navy with an enhanced ability to monitor surface vessels, detect submarines, and conduct SAR missions across the region.
Unlike many other maritime patrol aircraft, the Meltem II was designed from the ground up to operate in diverse and challenging environments. It could perform effectively in littoral (coastal) waters, where submarine activity is often concentrated, as well as in the open ocean. The integration of advanced mission systems, such as radar, Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensors, and the Magnetic Anomaly Detector (MAD), made the aircraft a formidable tool for ASW and maritime reconnaissance.
While the TAI Meltem II does not have a specific NATO reporting name, its role within NATO’s Mediterranean operations has been significant. The aircraft’s ability to conduct surveillance, track surface vessels, and detect submarines complements NATO’s broader efforts to maintain security and stability in the Mediterranean Sea. Turkey, as a NATO member, uses the Meltem II in joint operations, including exercises and patrol missions coordinated with other NATO naval forces.
History of the Development of the TAI Meltem II (CN-235)
The origins of the TAI Meltem II (CN-235) aircraft lie in Turkey’s growing need for an advanced maritime patrol platform during the late 1990s and early 2000s. At the time, Turkey faced increasing challenges related to border security, illegal immigration, smuggling, and tensions over maritime boundaries. The ability to monitor and control its territorial waters became an urgent priority, particularly in light of developments in the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas. These challenges necessitated the modernization of the Turkish Navy’s fleet, which had been operating older, less capable maritime patrol aircraft.
To address these issues, the Turkish government launched the Meltem program, with its first iteration, Meltem I, focused on modernizing the country’s maritime surveillance capabilities. However, it became clear that more was needed, particularly in terms of anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and broader maritime reconnaissance. This realization led to the development of Meltem II, a more advanced program designed to deliver a multi-mission maritime patrol aircraft capable of performing a wide range of roles.
The aircraft selected for the Meltem II program was the CN-235, a versatile twin-engine medium transport aircraft developed by CASA, which later became part of Airbus Military. The CN-235 was chosen for its reliability, long range, and adaptability. Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), in collaboration with Airbus Military, undertook the task of converting the CN-235 into a specialized maritime patrol aircraft. This involved integrating advanced mission systems tailored for ASW, reconnaissance, and search-and-rescue (SAR) missions.
The development of the TAI Meltem II (CN-235) began in 2002 when Turkey signed an agreement with Airbus Military for the procurement and modification of a fleet of CN-235 aircraft. The modifications included the integration of surface search radar, EO/IR sensors, a Magnetic Anomaly Detector (MAD), and weapons bays for torpedoes and depth charges. These systems were essential for detecting and engaging surface and subsurface threats in the maritime domain.
The first flight of the Meltem II aircraft took place in 2005, marking a significant milestone in the modernization of Turkey’s maritime patrol capabilities. Over the next few years, additional aircraft were delivered to the Turkish Navy, with each one equipped with the latest mission systems and weapons. The program was designed to provide the Navy with a fleet of modern, capable maritime patrol aircraft that could operate in all weather conditions and across a wide range of environments.
The TAI Meltem II program was not only a technological success but also a strategic one. It gave Turkey a critical capability in protecting its maritime borders, monitoring shipping lanes, and responding to potential threats in the region. The aircraft’s multi-mission capability allowed it to perform a wide range of roles, from ASW and surface surveillance to SAR and environmental monitoring.
The geopolitical context in which the Meltem II was developed also played a crucial role in shaping the program’s objectives. Turkey’s location at the crossroads of Europe and the Middle East meant that it was often at the forefront of regional conflicts and tensions. The Mediterranean Sea, in particular, became a focal point for disputes over territorial waters, energy exploration, and migration flows. In this environment, the need for a capable maritime patrol aircraft became more urgent.
Turkey’s participation in NATO operations also influenced the development of the Meltem II. As a member of the alliance, Turkey needed to maintain a maritime patrol capability that could support joint operations in the Mediterranean and beyond. The Meltem II aircraft, with its advanced surveillance and ASW capabilities, allowed Turkey to contribute effectively to NATO’s maritime security efforts.
The program was completed with the delivery of multiple aircraft to the Turkish Navy. These aircraft are now a critical part of Turkey’s maritime patrol fleet, providing the Navy with a highly capable tool for monitoring and protecting its territorial waters. The success of the Meltem II program also led to discussions about potential exports to other countries in need of similar capabilities.
Design of the TAI Meltem II (CN-235)
The design of the TAI Meltem II (CN-235) is based on the original CN-235 platform developed by Airbus Military. The aircraft is a twin-engine turboprop with a high-wing design, which provides excellent visibility for maritime surveillance operations. The CN-235’s airframe is made of lightweight aluminum alloy, which gives it the necessary durability for long-range flights while keeping the overall weight low to improve fuel efficiency.
With a length of 70 feet (21.4 meters) and a wingspan of 84 feet (25.8 meters), the aircraft is relatively compact for a maritime patrol platform. This makes it well-suited for operations in constrained environments, such as coastal regions and areas with limited airfield space. The aircraft’s compact design also allows it to be easily transported and deployed to different locations as needed.
One of the key design features of the Meltem II is its advanced mission systems. The aircraft is equipped with a surface search radar, which allows it to detect and track surface vessels at long ranges. This radar can operate in all weather conditions and is capable of detecting even small vessels in rough seas. In addition to the radar, the aircraft is fitted with an Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensor, which provides high-resolution imagery for day and night operations. This sensor is particularly useful for identifying and tracking targets in challenging environments, such as coastal areas with heavy traffic.
The aircraft is also equipped with a Magnetic Anomaly Detector (MAD), which is used to detect the presence of submarines. The MAD system measures variations in the Earth’s magnetic field caused by the presence of large metal objects, such as submarines. This capability makes the Meltem II a valuable asset for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions, allowing it to locate and track submerged threats in real-time.
The Meltem II’s design also includes a weapons bay, which can carry torpedoes and depth charges. This gives the aircraft the ability to engage submarines and surface vessels if necessary. The integration of weapons systems allows the aircraft to not only detect threats but also neutralize them, providing a full-spectrum capability for maritime defense operations.
One of the main advantages of the Meltem II’s design is its multi-mission capability. The aircraft can be configured for a variety of roles, including maritime surveillance, ASW, SAR, and environmental monitoring. This flexibility makes it a valuable asset for the Turkish Navy, which can deploy the aircraft for different missions depending on the operational requirements.
However, the design of the Meltem II is not without its drawbacks. While the aircraft is highly capable in the maritime patrol role, its relatively small size limits its endurance and range when compared to larger maritime patrol aircraft, such as the P-3 Orion or the P-8 Poseidon. The CN-235 platform, while reliable, is not designed for long-duration flights, and the Meltem II’s operational range is limited to approximately 2,430 miles (3,910 km). This restricts its ability to conduct extended patrols over open ocean areas.
Despite this limitation, the Meltem II’s design is well-suited for its intended role in coastal and littoral environments. The aircraft’s relatively small size and lightweight design allow it to operate from smaller airfields and in areas where larger aircraft would be impractical. Additionally, its advanced mission systems provide it with the necessary capabilities to perform its surveillance and ASW missions effectively.
The aircraft’s maintenance and operational requirements are also relatively low, thanks to its simple and reliable design. This makes the Meltem II a cost-effective solution for countries that need a capable maritime patrol aircraft but do not have the budget for larger, more expensive platforms.
Performance of the TAI Meltem II (CN-235)
The TAI Meltem II (CN-235) is powered by two General Electric CT7-9C3 turboprop engines, each producing 1,870 horsepower (1,394 kW). These engines provide the aircraft with a cruising speed of 240 knots (445 km/h) and a maximum speed of 272 knots (504 km/h). The CT7-9C3 engines are known for their reliability and efficiency, making them well-suited for long-range maritime patrol missions. The aircraft’s range is approximately 2,430 miles (3,910 km), which allows it to cover a wide area during surveillance missions. However, its range is limited compared to larger maritime patrol aircraft, such as the Boeing P-8 Poseidon, which has a range of over 5,000 miles (8,047 km).
The TAI Meltem II (CN-235) has an operational ceiling of 25,000 feet (7,620 meters), which is typical for aircraft in its class. This altitude capability allows the aircraft to fly above most weather disturbances during patrol missions, ensuring operational stability and optimal sensor performance. Its relatively low altitude ceiling, however, limits its ability to operate in high-altitude surveillance missions, especially when compared to aircraft like the P-3 Orion, which can fly up to 28,000 feet (8,534 meters). Still, for the coastal and littoral missions that the Meltem II primarily serves, this operational altitude is sufficient.
In terms of endurance, the Meltem II can remain airborne for more than 8 hours, depending on mission configuration and payload. While this endurance is respectable for a mid-sized maritime patrol aircraft, it falls short of the capabilities of larger platforms like the P-3 Orion or the P-8 Poseidon, both of which can stay airborne for 12-16 hours, allowing for extended patrols. Nevertheless, for missions over coastal regions or relatively confined areas like the Mediterranean Sea, the Meltem II’s endurance is adequate.
The aircraft’s onboard sensors and systems significantly contribute to its overall performance. Its surface search radar allows it to detect and track surface vessels over a range of several hundred miles, even in poor weather conditions. The Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensors provide the capability to gather high-resolution imagery and video, both during the day and at night. These sensors are critical for identifying and tracking vessels or other targets that may not be detectable by radar alone, particularly in cluttered maritime environments.
The Magnetic Anomaly Detector (MAD) on the Meltem II enhances its anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities. The MAD system can detect the presence of submarines by measuring disturbances in the Earth’s magnetic field caused by large metal objects underwater. This allows the aircraft to pinpoint the location of submarines, even if they are submerged at great depths. The integration of the MAD system gives the Meltem II a competitive edge in ASW missions, enabling it to perform a key role in detecting and neutralizing underwater threats.
When compared to its competitors, the Meltem II holds its ground as a cost-effective maritime patrol solution. While it may not have the advanced capabilities of the Boeing P-8 Poseidon or the endurance of the Lockheed P-3 Orion, its affordability, combined with its multi-mission capability, makes it an attractive option for countries that require a modern, capable maritime patrol aircraft without the financial burden of larger platforms.
The Meltem II’s relative simplicity also makes it easier to operate and maintain. Unlike larger, more complex aircraft, the Meltem II requires fewer crew members, reducing operational costs. Additionally, the aircraft’s turboprop engines are more fuel-efficient than the jet engines used in some competing platforms, further lowering its operational costs.
Variants of the TAI Meltem II (CN-235)
The TAI Meltem II (CN-235) has been developed in several variants, each tailored to meet specific mission requirements. The base model, known simply as the Meltem II, is designed for maritime patrol and reconnaissance missions. This version is equipped with the standard suite of mission systems, including surface search radar, EO/IR sensors, and a Magnetic Anomaly Detector (MAD) for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions.
One of the key variants is the Meltem II ASW, which is specifically optimized for anti-submarine warfare operations. This variant features enhanced ASW capabilities, including a more advanced MAD system and the integration of torpedoes and depth charges in its weapons bay. This variant is used primarily for detecting and neutralizing underwater threats in coastal and open ocean environments.
Another variant, the Meltem II SAR, is designed for search-and-rescue missions. This version is equipped with specialized sensors and communication systems that enable it to locate and assist vessels or individuals in distress. The SAR variant can operate in all weather conditions, providing a critical capability for maritime rescue operations.
Military Use and Combat of the TAI Meltem II (CN-235)
The TAI Meltem II (CN-235) has become an integral part of the Turkish Navy’s maritime operations, where it is used extensively for a variety of missions, including maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare (ASW), and search-and-rescue (SAR) operations. The aircraft’s primary role is to provide real-time intelligence on maritime threats and to support naval operations by detecting and tracking surface vessels, submarines, and other potential threats.
The Meltem II’s anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities are among its most critical military functions. Equipped with a Magnetic Anomaly Detector (MAD) and capable of deploying torpedoes and depth charges, the aircraft plays a key role in detecting and neutralizing underwater threats. The aircraft’s MAD system allows it to detect submarines by measuring disturbances in the Earth’s magnetic field caused by large metal objects beneath the water. Once a submarine is detected, the Meltem II can deploy its onboard weapons to engage and neutralize the threat.
One of the aircraft’s most significant deployments occurred during joint NATO operations in the Mediterranean Sea, where it was used to track and monitor submarine activity as part of broader maritime security efforts. The Meltem II’s ability to operate in littoral (coastal) waters made it a valuable asset in detecting submarines that were attempting to operate close to shore, where traditional naval assets might struggle to detect them.
In addition to its ASW role, the Meltem II is used for maritime surveillance, where it monitors shipping lanes, detects illegal activities such as smuggling, and ensures the safety of Turkey’s maritime borders. The aircraft’s advanced radar and EO/IR sensors allow it to detect and track surface vessels over long distances, even in poor weather conditions. This capability has been particularly useful in monitoring the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, where Turkey has extensive maritime interests.
The aircraft has also played a significant role in search-and-rescue (SAR) missions. The Meltem II’s ability to operate in all weather conditions and its advanced sensors allow it to locate vessels or individuals in distress, even in remote areas. The aircraft’s SAR capabilities have been utilized during several high-profile rescue operations, including efforts to assist migrants and refugees attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea in small, often unseaworthy boats. The Meltem II’s ability to quickly locate and assist vessels in distress has saved numerous lives.
The Meltem II has been used in various military exercises, both independently and in coordination with NATO forces. These exercises have tested the aircraft’s ability to detect and track submarines, as well as its performance in maritime surveillance and SAR missions. The aircraft’s participation in these exercises has demonstrated its effectiveness in real-world operations and has helped to refine its mission capabilities.
The TAI Meltem II (CN-235) has not been involved in direct combat operations, as its primary role is surveillance and reconnaissance rather than offensive missions. However, its ability to detect and engage submarines, as well as its role in supporting naval operations, makes it a critical component of Turkey’s maritime defense strategy. The aircraft’s ASW capabilities are particularly important in the Mediterranean Sea, where submarine activity is a concern for both Turkey and its NATO allies.
The aircraft has not been widely exported, but several countries have expressed interest in the Meltem II due to its relatively low cost and advanced capabilities. Nations with significant maritime interests and limited defense budgets view the Meltem II as a cost-effective solution for enhancing their maritime patrol and ASW capabilities.
The TAI Meltem II (CN-235) is still in service with the Turkish Navy and is expected to remain in operation for the foreseeable future. While there are plans to develop more advanced maritime patrol aircraft, the Meltem II continues to fulfill a critical role in Turkey’s maritime security operations. The aircraft’s flexibility, reliability, and multi-mission capability make it an invaluable asset for Turkey’s naval forces.