Türkiye to build warships for EU and NATO member Portugal in historic deal PHOTO / VIDEO

For the first time, Türkiye will export warships to a European Union and NATO member country.

STM Defence Technologies Engineering and Trade Inc., a Turkish defence contractor, has won the tender to design and construct two supply and logistics support ships for the Portuguese Navy.

According to SavunmaSanayiST.com, STM outperformed some of the world’s leading naval companies to secure the contract, marking a significant milestone in Türkiye's defence exports, Caliber.Az reports.

Türkiye’nin Askeri Gemi İhracatında İlk NATO ve AB Ülkesi!

Türkiye’nin denizlerdeki milli mühendislik gücü STM, Portekiz Deniz Kuvvetleri Lojistik Destek Gemisi ihalesinde, dünyanın önde gelen askeri denizcilik firmalarını geride bırakarak, projeyi kazandı.

2 adet Denizde İkmal… https://t.co/cKWu3WTOcd pic.twitter.com/KdKN64zhDN

— SavunmaSanayiST.com (@SavunmaSanayiST) December 17, 2024

The logistics support ships, designed with versatility and innovation in mind, will play a key role in joint force transfer, amphibious operations, and at-sea replenishment missions. Beyond combat, the ships are equipped for humanitarian assistance, search and rescue, and even medical support missions during crises.

Key specifications include:

• Length: 137 meters
• Displacement: 11,000 tonnes
• Maximum Speed: Over 18 knots
• Endurance: 90 days at sea without resupply
• Crew Capacity: 100 personnel, with additional accommodation for 100 external personnel and up to 20 light tactical armoured vehicles.

The ships will be outfitted with cutting-edge technology and weaponry, including:

• Close air defence systems
• Remotely operated 12.7mm weapon systems
• Advanced anti-aircraft and decoy systems
• State-of-the-art sensors for air defence and other combat roles

Additionally, they will feature platforms and hangars for helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), enhancing their operational versatility.

The Maritime Resupply and Logistics Support Ship (AOR+) design underscores Türkiye’s growing capability in advanced naval engineering. These multi-purpose ships are not only suited for wartime resupply but also for peacetime logistical support, further solidifying Türkiye’s position as a key player in global defence exports.

This historic deal highlights Türkiye's expanding influence in the defence sector and its ability to meet the demands of NATO and EU allies.

By Tamilla Hasanova