STM introduces new multi-role support ship design

Turkish shipbuilding major STM has unveiled an innovative design to meet modern naval operational needs, the new multi-role support ship (MRSS).

As informed, the MRSS is an amphibious assault vessel designed for expeditionary warfare, capable of transporting RDF battalions, equipment, and vehicles. It also provides logistical support to naval platforms at sea under challenging conditions, both in peace and wartime.

The vessel has an overall length of 153 meters and a breadth of 24 meters. It has a displacement of 9,700 tons and is capable of operating for up to 30 days without resupply. The maximum speed of the ship exceeds 18 knots, and it has a range of more than 8,000 nautical miles when cruising at 14 knots.

In terms of carrying capacity, the ship accommodates a crew of 150 personnel and can transport an additional 500 troops. It is equipped with two landing craft utility (LCU) vessels and features an 800 square meter tank deck capable of holding 14 main battle tanks and 9 assault amphibious vehicles.

The ship also supports two 15-ton helicopters, with facilities for both landing platforms and hangar storage. Additionally, it carries two 10-meter rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs) with A-type davits. For operational support, the vessel can store 630 tons of fuel and 215 tons of freshwater.

Its weapon systems include one 76 mm main gun, four 12.7 mm remote-controlled stabilized weapon systems, and two chaff/infrared decoy launchers for defense against incoming threats.

The design was revealed at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) in Malaysia.

Speaking at the event, STM General Manager Özgür Güleryüz emphasized that MRSS is not only designed for military purposes but also plays a critical role in humanitarian aid missions.

“From evacuation and medical support as a hospital ship to helicopter operations and search and rescue missions, it enhances naval operational capabilities. We have developed a cost-effective and efficient design for long-term missions at sea,” he added.

STM has started the construction of three corvettes for the Royal Malaysian Navy under the LMS Batch-2 project in Türkiye.