Denizhan is a 76/62 mm caliber naval gun developed entirely with domestic and national resources by Makine ve Kimya Endüstrisi A.Ş. (MKE). The system aims to reduce Türkiye’s dependence on foreign sources in the defense industry.

_{Denizhan is a 76/62 mm caliber naval gun (MKE)}

Technical Specifications

• Caliber and Barrel Length: 76 mm caliber with a barrel length of 62 calibers (approximately 4700 mm).
• Rate of Fire: Capable of firing 80 rounds per minute.
• Range: Up to 16 km with standard ammunition, and up to 20 km with extended-range ammunition.
• Weight: 7,500 kg without ammunition; 8,500 kg with ammunition.
• Ready-to-Fire Ammunition: Can hold 80 rounds ready for firing.
• Elevation and Traverse Limits: Elevation range -15° to +85°, traverse ±360° (with Slip Ring).
• Movement Capabilities: Traverse speed 60–65°/s, elevation speed 35–40°/s; acceleration on both axes is 72°/s².
• Cooling System: Uses seawater cooling and freshwater washing system.
• Control System: Operated via a digital control console.
• Cupola Feature: Radar cross-section has been reduced.
• Power Requirements: Operates on 440V, 3-phase, 60Hz or 115V, 2-phase, 60Hz electricity.

Development Process and Integration

The R&D phase for Denizhan was completed in a short period of 12 months, with prototype production successfully carried out. Comprising a total of 17,000 parts, the system has successfully passed land firing, harbor, and sea acceptance tests.

The initial sea trials were conducted on the Burak-class corvette TCG Beykoz (F-503). These tests were carried out in collaboration with the Istanbul Shipyard Command, and the integration of the gun onto naval platforms was successfully completed.

Denizhan has been integrated into Hisar-class offshore patrol vessels such as TCG Akhisar and TCG Koçhisar. Additionally, it has been delivered to Anadolu Shipyard for integration onto the TCG İzmir frigate.

_{MKE’s 76mm Naval Gun Test (YouTube)}

Strategic and Economic Importance

The development of Denizhan is part of Türkiye’s strategy to reduce dependence on foreign defense suppliers and to promote domestic production. Previously, similar naval guns were procured from abroad at high costs and with long delivery times. For example, the cost of 76 mm naval guns purchased from the Italian company Leonardo was 8.2 million euros, whereas the cost of Denizhan is 4.7 million dollars.

Domestic production provides cost benefits, contributes to Türkiye’s technological independence in the defense industry, and may influence export potential.

Denizhan 76/62 mm National Naval Gun reflects Türkiye’s local and national production capacity in the defense sector. Equipped with high firepower, extended range, and advanced control systems, the system is designed to enhance the operational capabilities of the Turkish Naval Forces.