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SSM officials state that the prefered LPD for the Turkish Navy is the Dokto Class of Korea. Turkish officials state that due to the strategic agreement between South Korea which includes co-production of Towed Howitzers, Trainer Aircraft, MBT Armour etc, it is most likely that Turkey will opt for the Dokto Class.
The other added advantages is that the Dokto class can operate the F-35B if Turkey decides to accept the option of adding a ski jump board module 15-17 meters in length to the main deck which is already coated with a special heat resistant paint. This will also give a good indication as to why Turkey is still actively involved in the F-35B development phase rather than only the F-35c. There is also talk that Turkey intends to purchase 20 F-35B's.
The other contender is Italian company Fincantieri's offer. Like the dokto class, Italy's offer also is a semi-carrier type. A decision will be made at the upcoming SSIK meeting.
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