Türkiye lays keel for first national fast attack craft PHOTO/VIDEO

STM, a leading company in Türkiye’s defence sector, has officially commenced construction of the National Fast Attack Craft (FAC) with a keel laying ceremony held at Istanbul Shipyard. The ceremony, conducted under the auspices of Türkiye’s Secretariat of Defence Industries (SSB), marks a significant milestone in the country’s naval history.

Considered a pivotal moment in shipbuilding, the “keel laying” ceremony signifies the official start of the vessel’s construction, marked by the placement of the first hull block. The FAC project is being executed under STM’s main contractorship responsibility for the Turkish Naval Forces Command, Defence Turk reports.

🔵🇹🇷Türkiye's fast attack craft reaches new milestone

🔸STM, has held the keel laying ceremony marking the official start of the National Fast Attack Craft (FAC) construction.
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STM General Manager Özgür Güleryüz emphasized the strategic importance of the project for Türkiye’s naval self-sufficiency. He stated:

“In the construction phase of our National Fast Attack Craft, which has been entirely designed by STM engineers, we have now placed the first block following the initial steel-cutting ceremony. This project represents not only the production of a new naval platform but also Türkiye’s advancement to the level of designing and constructing its own indigenous FAC. With its national design, high degree of indigenization, and modern weapon systems, our National FAC will further enhance Türkiye’s deterrence and strength in the Blue Homeland.”

The National FAC project officially began with a contract signed between SSB and STM on September 9, 2024. Construction of the first vessel commenced in 2025, starting with the steel-cutting ceremony on 8 July. STM unveiled the vessel’s model at the International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF 2025) on July 22, 2025.

Designed for versatility and survivability, the National FAC is capable of conducting surface warfare missions from concealed positions, complicating enemy detection. It will be armed with long-range ATMACA surface-to-surface missiles, a 76mm MKE main gun, and advanced air defence systems, while offering high speed and maneuverability. The craft will operate effectively in shallow waters, maintain a low radar cross-section, and perform live-fire operations under heavy sea conditions, even at full load displacement.

The project emphasizes the use of indigenous resources throughout design, construction, and procurement, reflecting Türkiye’s commitment to local content and defence industry independence.

Key Specifications

• Length Overall (LOA): 00 m

• Moulded Breadth (Bmax): 9.34 m

• Displacement: 700 tons

• Maximum Speed: 39+ knots

• Cruising Speed: 20 knots

• Range: 800 nm (minimum)

• Crew Accommodation: 36 personnel

Weapons and Sensors:

• 76 mm Main Gun

• Surface-to-Surface Missile System (ATMACA SSM)

• PDMS

• 2 × 12.7 mm Remote Controlled Weapon Systems

• 2 × Chaff/Decoy Systems

• Combat Management System

• 3D Surveillance Radar

• Electronic Support Measure System

• Infrared Search and Attack System

Propulsion and Electrical Systems:

• 4 × Diesel Engines

• 4 × Steerable Waterjets

• 3 × Diesel Generators

By Vafa Guliyeva