Türkiye’s naval engineering company STM has held the keel-laying ceremony for the second auxiliary oiler replenisher and logistics support ship (LSS) being built for the Portuguese Navy.
As informed, the ceremony for the vessel N.R.P. FERNANDO PESSOA took place at ADA Shipyard in Istanbul on October 20. STM signed the contract for the LSS project in Lisbon in December 2024, securing Türkiye’s first-ever military ship export to an EU and NATO member country.
Following the completion of the design phase, construction of the first vessel, N.R.P. LUÍS DE CAMÕES, commenced with its steel cutting ceremony in November 2025, followed by keel laying in January 2026. The steel cutting ceremony for the second vessel was subsequently held on 18 June 2026.
As hull construction and outfitting activities continue on the first ship, the keel laying ceremony for the second vessel, N.R.P. FERNANDO PESSOA (A5212), took place on 20 October 2026 at ADA Shipyard in Istanbul. This latest milestone marks the start of simultaneous construction activities for both vessels under STM’s main contractorship.
The Auxiliary Oiler Replenisher and Logistics Ships, a project considered a significant milestone in showcasing Türkiye’s advancements in naval engineering, will feature a modular design. In addition to providing logistical support, transferring fuel and cargo at sea, the ships will have the capacity to transport armored vehicles, enabling them to support joint and amphibious operations. With a stern-quarter ro-ro ramp, each vessel will be capable of carrying up to 20 light armored tactical vehicles. Thanks to their modular, unique, and versatile design, the vessels will also be equipped to undertake humanitarian aid, search and rescue, and medical missions during crises. Fitted with an Integrated Communication System, the ships will have command and control capabilities that will enable efficient fleet coordination.
The vessels, measuring 137 meters in length with a displacement over 11,000 tonnes and a maximum speed of over 18 knots, will be capable of operating continuously at sea for up to 30 days. Each ship will accommodate 100 personnel and transport up to 20 light armored tactical vehicles. Equipped with advanced sensors and weapon systems, the ships will primarily be configurated for anti-air warfare while being capable of engaging in all principal warfare functions. The vessels will feature 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 be equipped with a landing platform for helicopters and UAVs, as well as a UAV hangar.