Turkish naval design firm Kuasar Marin has revealed details of its KM-F148 air defense frigate, a 148-meter warship concept aimed at area air defense missions.
The KM-F148 is designed around a displacement of 5,500 tons with a beam of 18.25 meters. The vessel is configured for a complement of 229 personnel, including 35 officers, 108 petty officers, and 86 ratings. According to specifications released by Kuasar Marin, the design features a combined propulsion system comprising two 23,500 kW gas turbines and two 4,300 kW diesel engines driving controllable pitch propellers, providing a maximum speed of 30 knots and a cruise speed of 18 knots with a stated range of 5,000 nautical miles.
The frigate’s primary mission profile centers on fleet air defense, with the armament package reflecting this focus. The design incorporates two 24-cell vertical launch systems for surface-to-air missiles, providing a total capacity of 48 SAM cells. This is complemented by a point defense missile system and two close-in weapons systems for layered air defense. Surface and subsurface warfare capabilities are addressed through eight anti-ship missiles, torpedo launchers, and a hull-mounted sonar system, while a single 127mm main gun provides naval gunfire support.
The sensor suite outlined in the design includes a three-dimensional search radar, AESA-based illuminating and tracking radars, fire control radar, navigation radar, and low probability of intercept radar systems. Aviation facilities include a flight deck rated for a 10-ton helicopter, a combined hangar for both helicopter and unmanned aerial vehicle operations, and a helicopter handling and transfer system.
In parallel with the frigate unveiling, Kuasar Marin has moved to strengthen its position in Türkiye’s naval sector. In September 2025, the company signed a strategic collaboration agreement with RMK Marine, one of Türkiye’s established shipbuilders with significant naval construction experience. Speaking at the announcement, RMK Marine General Manager Dr. Utku Alanç stated that the partnership aims to combine RMK’s production infrastructure and international quality standards with Kuasar Marin’s design expertise in military vessels. The collaboration is structured around cooperative business development and production partnership.
The company has also extended its operations internationally with the establishment of Kuasar UK, marking an expansion of its presence beyond the Turkish market. This move appears consistent with broader efforts by Turkish defense and maritime companies to develop closer ties with Western markets and supply chains.
The KM-F148 concept enters a competitive segment of the frigate market where established European and Asian designs dominate. The 5,000-6,000 ton class has seen particular activity in recent years with vessels such as the Italian FREMM, Spanish F-110, Japanese Mogami and various other Asian designs competing for export orders. The design’s focus on area air defense with 48 VLS cells positions it between lighter general-purpose frigates and more heavily armed destroyers.
