Türkiye’s STM has commenced steel cutting for the Portuguese Navy’s new auxiliary oiler replenisher and logistics ship in Istanbul, launching the construction phase of the country’s first-ever naval export to a European Union and NATO member.
On November 14, 2025, the steel-cutting ceremony was held at Ada Shipyard in Istanbul. STM signed a shipbuilding contract for the auxiliary oiler replenisher and logistics ship back in December 2024 in Lisbon, marking a major milestone in bilateral defence cooperation.
The project is considered a significant milestone in showcasing Türkiye’s advancements in naval engineering.
The logistics ships, measuring 137 meters in length with a displacement of over 11,000 tons and a maximum speed of over 18 knots, will be capable of operating continuously at sea for up to a month. Each ship will accommodate 100 personnel and transport up to 20 light tactical armored vehicles
The vessels will feature a modular design in addition to providing logistical support, transferring fuel and cargo at sea. Each unit will be able to transport up to 20 light tactical armored vehicles via a stern Ro-Ro ramp, supporting joint and amphibious operations. Their modular and flexible design also allows them to perform humanitarian assistance, search and rescue, and medical missions during emergencies.
Equipped with an integrated communication system, the ships will feature command and control functions that will enable efficient fleet coordination. Moreover, they will have advanced sensors and weapon systems to support air defense operations while being capable of engaging in all principal warfare functions.
The fueling-at-sea (FAS) and replenishment-at-sea (RAS) equipment will be provided by Norwegian technology company Kongsberg Maritime, for which the company signed a contract with STM in September this year.
The vessels will also include close-in weapon systems, 12.7 mm remote-controlled weapon systems, and chaff/decoy systems, alongside a range of advanced sensors. For helicopter operations, the ships will include a landing platform for helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), as well as a UAV hangar.
At the ceremony, Dr. Haluk Görgün , President of the Secretariat of Defence Industries (SSB), said:
STM General Manager Özgür Güleryüz highlighted the company’s expanding role as a trusted partner to navies worldwide, noting STM’s work with countries such as Portugal, Ukraine, Pakistan, and Malaysia.
He added that the event marked not only the beginning of a new project but also a symbol of friendship and shared engineering vision between Türkiye and Portugal.
The keel laying of the first ship is planned for January 2026, and both vessels are scheduled for delivery in 2028 to enhance the Portuguese Navy’s capabilities and strengthen NATO’s maritime operations.