Turkish naval engineering company STM laid the keel of the Portuguese Navy's second logistics support ship, an auxiliary oiler replenisher, at ADA Shipyard in Tuzla, Istanbul, on Tuesday, October 20.
The keel-laying of the future NRP Fernando Pessoa means both ships are now under construction simultaneously. Hull construction and outfitting are continuing on the first vessel, NRP Luís de Camões, which had its keel laid in January. Steel cutting for the second ship took place in June.
STM said it aims to launch both vessels in 2027 and deliver them in 2028. The navy expects Fernando Pessoa to be handed over at the end of 2028.
"Once in service, it will strengthen our ability to support NATO's maritime operations, enhance interoperability with our allies, and reinforce our contribution to the collective defence of the Euro-Atlantic area," Chief of the Portuguese Navy Admiral Jorge Manuel Nobre de Sousa said.
The second ship was previously designated D. Dinis before the navy renamed her after the 20th-century poet Fernando Pessoa.
The 137-metre ships will displace 11,000 tonnes, have hybrid diesel-electric propulsion and be capable of speeds exceeding 18 knots. They will transfer fuel, fresh water, solid cargo and ammunition at sea.
Each ship can also carry up to 20 light armoured tactical vehicles, which will be loaded through a stern-quarter Ro-Ro ramp. The ships will also have a landing platform for helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), along with a UAV hangar.
STM signed the contract in Lisbon on December 17, 2024. The company describes the programme as Turkey's first military ship export to a member of both the European Union and NATO.
