ISTANBUL, Dec. 19 (Xinhua) -- Türkiye will build two naval logistics ships for Portugal, its first-ever military shipbuilding for export to a NATO and European Union (EU) member state, Turkish defense company STM said on Thursday.
STM, a leading Turkish defense firm, said on its website that it had secured a contract to build two naval vessels, classified as auxiliary replenishment oiler and logistics ships, for the Portuguese Navy.
The vessels will be built in a private Turkish shipyard, with STM as the main contractor. This marks Türkiye's first military ship export to an EU and NATO member state via STM, the company said.
Construction is set to begin in 2025, STM added, without providing further details on the timeline.
The 137-meter-long ships, displacing 11,000 tons and capable of speeds exceeding 18 knots, will have a modular design for greater versatility, STM said. They will be able to transfer fuel and cargo at sea, transport up to 20 light tactical armored vehicles, and support joint and amphibious operations. The vessels will also have an endurance of up to 90 days at sea. ■
