Turkey has officially begun steel cutting for the first military vessel it will export to Portugal, marking a significant milestone in growing defense cooperation between Ankara and Lisbon. The project involves the construction of two Auxiliary Oiler and Logistics Vessels (AOLVs) under a contract finalized in December 2024. These ships will form a key part of Portugal’s future naval support capability.
Engineered for long-range operations, the vessels are designed to travel 14,000 nautical miles at an economical speed of 14 knots, enabling them to support a wide range of missions. Their roles include underway replenishment, logistics transport, amphibious support, medical operations, maritime search and rescue, and humanitarian assistance. Each ship can carry up to 20 light armored vehicles and features a flight deck and hangar capable of hosting both helicopters and unmanned aerial platforms.
The program draws participation from around 30 Turkish defense companies, with STM serving as the prime contractor. According to STM, the first vessel will be delivered in 36 months, while the second ship will follow in 44 months, underscoring Turkey’s expanding role as a global naval supplier.
Turkey’s defense industry has significantly expanded its international footprint in recent years. Turkish Aerospace Industries has delivered armed Anka-S drones to Qatar and Azerbaijan, providing advanced reconnaissance and strike capabilities. STM has exported MILGEM-class Ada corvettes to Pakistan, while Roketsan has supplied precision-guided weapons and short-range missile systems to Morocco, strengthening Turkey’s position in the global defense market.
