The first Reis-class submarine, the PIRIREIS (TYPE-214), a German-designed and Turkish-built vessel, has officially joined the Turkish fleet. The ceremony took place at the Aksaz Naval Base, across from Rhodes, where President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized Turkey's commitment to strengthening its navy to protect the "Blue Homeland."

Erdogan highlighted Turkey's strategic position, surrounded by seas on three sides, and its historical role as a central point in global power struggles. He underscored the importance of having a strong and effective navy, both to defend the "Blue Homeland" and to operate in distant regions, noting that since 2002, Turkey has been working to strengthen its armed forces under the slogan "Strong Turkey, Strong Army."

The Turkish president stated that his strategy is based on the doctrine: "Whoever controls the seas, controls the world."

He also mentioned the second Turkish Navy submarine, the HIZIREIS, which will soon begin sea trials, and the third submarine, the MURATREIS, which has been launched. "We will have all Reis-class submarines operational by 2029. As you know, we are currently one of the few countries capable of designing, building, and maintaining our own warships."

Erdogan pointed out the upgrades at the Aksaz base, noting that its shipyard will now be capable of building vessels in addition to maintenance and repairs to meet the Navy's needs.

"We are enhancing our shipbuilding infrastructure. Now, we have our fourth shipyard. The Aksaz Shipyard Command spans 113,000 square meters and is strategically crucial as it lies at the crossroads of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. Later, we will build a fifth shipyard in Mersin."

The Turkish Navy now operates shipyards in Istanbul, Gölcük, Izmir, and Aksaz.

Erdogan further remarked, "We will take firm steps towards the goals of Turkey's century, undeterred by those who dismiss the Blue Homeland as a myth, overcoming obstacles without taking a step back."