Ship Traffic Surveillance Stations Construction Finalised in Northern Cyprus
Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, announced the completion of construction for ship traffic surveillance stations at three locations in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), as part of the Eastern Mediterranean Ship Traffic Services Project. According to Minister Uraloğlu, hardware procurement and software development efforts are ongoing, with the aim to launch the system in the second half of 2026.
Enhancing Turkey’s Role and Technological Independence
Minister Uraloğlu emphasised that the project will strengthen Turkey’s presence in the Eastern Mediterranean. He explained, “With this project, we will be able to monitor maritime traffic between the coastal waters of the TRNC and Turkey, safeguarding our interests in the ‘blue homeland’. Our fully national software ensures technological independence in this field.”
Project Scope and Key Developments
The project is overseen by the Directorate General of Maritime Affairs and delivered by HAVELSAN. Installation is underway for a Ship Traffic Services Centre in Gazimağusa, while construction has concluded for surveillance stations in Karpaz, Sadrazamköy, and Çayırova. The system will integrate data from the Automatic Identification System (AIS) in Selvitepe and both AIS and radar systems in Kantara. Additionally, remote backup and console setups are planned for the Mersin Ship Traffic Services Centre in Turkey.
24/7 Monitoring and Improved Maritime Safety
Surveillance stations, equipped with modern radars, cameras, communication devices, and AIS technology, will enable continuous, real-time monitoring. All relevant information will be transmitted instantly to both the new centre in the TRNC and the existing centre in Mersin. Minister Uraloğlu noted that installation of the TRNC centre is nearing completion.
Operational Benefits of the New System
The system will facilitate ship identification, uninterrupted traffic monitoring, navigational updates, and general alerts for vessels. It will also support management of designated zones, aid in preventing smuggling, issue hazard warnings, and provide timely information to authorities in emergencies such as accidents or fires. Meteorological data sharing with ships will also be possible when required.
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