STM Defense Engineering, Technology, and Trade Inc., a prominent name in Turkey’s naval defense industry, has achieved a significant milestone by securing a contract to build logistics support vessels for the Portuguese Navy. This marks the first time Turkey has exported military vessels to a European Union and NATO member state through STM.
Landmark Contract Details
Under the agreement, STM will act as the prime contractor to design and construct two oil auxiliary supply vessels and one logistics vessel (AOR). These vessels will be built at a private Turkish shipyard, with construction scheduled to commence in 2025. The contract was formalized in a signing ceremony held in Lisbon, attended by high-ranking officials from both nations, including Turkey’s Minister of Defense Industries, Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün, and Portuguese Navy officials.
Strengthening Defense Ties
In his address, Prof. Dr. Görgün highlighted the significance of this collaboration, describing it as a milestone in defense cooperation between Turkey and Portugal. He remarked, “This project demonstrates Turkey’s growing capabilities in the defense industry and reflects our commitment to strengthening ties with NATO allies.”
STM’s General Manager, Özgür Güleryüz, emphasized the company’s global achievements, stating, “This agreement showcases our ability to deliver innovative, cost-effective, and efficient solutions to allied nations. The vessels’ modular design and advanced capabilities align perfectly with modern naval requirements.”
Cutting-Edge Naval Engineering
The logistics vessels, equipped with multi-role capabilities, will support various naval operations, including troop transport, amphibious missions, and replenishment at sea. Key features include:
- Modular Design: Facilitating diverse operational needs such as humanitarian aid, medical missions, and search and rescue.
- Enhanced Mobility: Capacity to carry up to 20 light tactical armored vehicles via a rear ramp.
- Advanced Armaments: Incorporation of close-in weapon systems, remotely controlled weapons, and decoy systems.
- Aviation Support: Helicopter and drone operations with dedicated hangars.
- Extended Endurance: Capable of operating continuously at sea for 90 days with a range of 14,000 nautical miles.
Technical Specifications
The vessels, measuring 137 meters in length and displacing 11,000 tons, will feature a diesel propulsion system achieving speeds over 18 knots and an electric propulsion system exceeding 6 knots. They will accommodate up to 100 personnel and offer logistical support for regional power projection and NATO missions.
A Milestone in Turkish Naval Exports
This historic project underscores STM’s growing reputation as a reliable partner for global navies. Building on previous successes, including flagship and logistics vessels for the Pakistani and Turkish navies, STM is poised to deliver world-class engineering solutions that meet contemporary naval demands.
As construction begins in 2025, this collaboration is set to strengthen ties between Turkey and Portugal, paving the way for future defense projects and showcasing Turkey’s capabilities on the global stage.
