Süleyman Duman, a student of the PhD Program at Istanbul Technical University Faculty of Naval Architecture and Marine Sciences, took part as a researcher in an ambitious research project of strategic importance for the national defense industry during the period when his scientific career was taking shape. In the project titled "Creation of a Maneuvering Mathematics Model of a Multi-Purpose Amphibious Assault Ship" supported by TÜBİTAK-BİLGEM, he had the opportunity to deepen his researcher identity by taking responsibility in both theoretical modeling and advanced simulation processes.

Within the scope of the project, a mathematical model of 6 degrees of freedom was developed, which predicts the complex hydrodynamic behavior of a multi-purpose amphibious assault ship. In this challenging process, Duman analyzed the effects of the ship's yaw-like movements on maneuverability with the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methodology. By comparing the accuracy of the numerical model with existing experimental data, he gained the ability to translate theoretical knowledge into practical engineering solutions.

"Creating a digital twin of such a complex and strategic platform has maximized my analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Taking an active role in the entire process, from CFD analysis to maneuver simulations, strengthened my identity as a researcher in a virtual laboratory environment. The graduate education I received at ITU was the main pillar in finding solutions to the engineering problems I encountered with a methodological and innovative approach," says Duman.

The project was led by ITU Faculty of Naval Architecture and Marine Sciences faculty member Prof. Dr. Şakir Bal. The results achieved not only marked a milestone in the successful completion of Duman's doctoral thesis but also made valuable contributions to Türkiye's competencies in the maritime and defense industry. Süleyman Duman, who successfully completed his doctorate thanks to his outstanding performance in the project, continues his postdoctoral studies in England.

While ITU produces solutions to critical engineering problems in strategic areas such as the defense industry, it also offers our young researchers the opportunity to take firm steps forward in the international arena with postgraduate education. This experience of Süleyman Duman is the product of an environment where our students gain not only theoretical knowledge but also a production culture that serves the country's technological goals.