Keel Laid for Portugal’s First Naval Support Vessel in Turkey
ANKARA — The keel of the inaugural naval support vessel for the Portuguese Navy was laid this week at Ada Shipyard in Istanbul. This significant milestone marks Turkey’s first military ship export to a European Union and NATO member state. The contract for the construction of two Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment (AOR) and Logistics Support Ships was signed by Turkish shipbuilder STM in Lisbon on December 17, 2024.
The keel-laying ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including the defense ministers and commanders of naval and air forces from both Turkey and Portugal. This collaboration highlights the strengthening defense ties between the two nations and underscores Turkey’s growing role in the European defense market.
Advanced Capabilities for Joint Operations
The newly designed vessels are intended to enhance joint force projection, amphibious operations, and humanitarian missions. Each ship will feature facilities for helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), complete with dedicated hangars for drones. Their modular design and integrated communication systems will allow for multi-mission adaptability, which includes command and control functions, medical support, and disaster relief operations.
In addition to logistical support, the ships will be capable of transferring fuel and cargo at sea. They are also designed to transport armored vehicles, which will facilitate joint and amphibious operations. Each vessel will include a stern ramp, allowing them to carry up to 20 light tactical armored vehicles, further enhancing their operational capabilities.
These ships were approved under the Military Programming Law for 2023–24, aimed at bolstering Portugal’s naval forces and enabling its vessels to sustain longer deployments at sea. This initiative reflects Portugal’s commitment to modernizing its naval capabilities in response to evolving security challenges.
Future Plans and Timelines
During the keel-laying ceremony, STM General Manager Özgür Güleryüz announced that construction of the second ship is slated to begin later this year, with the keel-laying for that vessel expected by June 2026. STM aims to launch both ships in 2027, with delivery to the Portuguese Navy scheduled for 2028.
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This project not only signifies a leap forward for Portugal’s naval capabilities but also represents a significant achievement for Turkey’s defense industry as it expands its footprint in international markets. The collaboration between Turkey and Portugal is set to pave the way for future defense partnerships, enhancing security cooperation within the NATO framework.
